Why Trump's Popularity is Slipping Among Serving Military Members: Insights and Reflections

Donald Trump's approval ratings have been on a steady decline, and this is especially evident among serving military members. Currently, his approval rating among this demographic stands below 50%. This decline is not just a numbers game but a reflection of deep dissatisfaction and disillusionment among the ranks.

The Disconnect

If you were a noble serviceman, trained and willing to give your life in defense of the country, its citizens, and the Constitution, and your so-called commander-in-chief was the kind of person who had nothing but disdain for anyone who wasn't actively praising him or sending him money—and someone who would not lift a finger to help anyone if there wasn't something in it for him—you'd be pretty disgusted too. A truly self-absorbed, hateful grifting wuss does not deserve the honor of leading good men and women.

General Kelly and the Suckers

Standing with General Kelly, a Gold Star Father, at a USA military cemetery, and saying 'I don’t get it, these guys were suckers,' is a telling moment that highlights a profound disconnect. It's not just about the words; it's about the actions and the values that the leader embodies. A leader whose actions do not align with the principles of bravery, sacrifice, and honor is not one that the troops can respect or support.

The Nathaniel's Despise

The fact that he shits on the military and thinks he knows more than all the generals might be a contributing factor to this divide. Senior officers, after all, have a wealth of experience and knowledge that informs their decisions. Dismissing this experience and knowledge not only shows a poor understanding of the military but also a disregard for the very people who put their lives on the line for the greater good.

A Lack of Respect

The troops don’t respect a coward. This platitude rings true for many who have served or are currently serving. If a leader fails to show the same bravery, integrity, and respect that they demand of their subordinates, they lose the trust and respect of those they lead. The perception of Trump as a "grifting wuss" who lacks a basic understanding of military life and its perils is a major contributing factor to this decline in approval ratings.

Denigration of Service Members

Trump has denigrated members of the military who were killed, maimed, or captured, calling them 'suckers' and 'losers.' This kind of rhetoric not only disrespects the service members but also mocks the gravity of their sacrifices. Such comments are not only unprofessional but also insensitive and inappropriate. The troops are unified in their belief that their leaders should honor and respect their sacrifices. Denigrating their service members is the antithesis of leadership and trustworthiness.

The Senior Officers’ Perspective

The Military Times reflects the views of senior officers who believe that perpetual war is the way forward. This perspective is often shaped by a need to maintain a steady flow of resources and support for war efforts. Senior officers, including General Tommy Franks, who sold out the troops for a book deal, are deemed to have prioritized personal gain over the well-being and needs of the troops. This behavior, seen as a betrayal of the troops, further erodes trust and undermines the ability of a leader to garner support.

War and Its Impact

No one reaches senior rank without actively pushing for war. This mindset, which prioritizes conflict and military engagement over diplomacy or peaceful resolutions, has a corrosive effect on the military's image and the trust that the troops place in their leaders. The perception that the nation is engaged in perpetual war, without a clear end in sight, contributes to the sense of disillusionment among serving military members.

The Russian Influence

Mention of a Russian bounty on American soldiers raises eyebrows. Russian interference in the military sphere, whether through propaganda or direct actions, is a serious issue that does damage to the morale and unity of the troops. Such actions can be seen as a form of psychological warfare, aimed at sowing discord and discouraging support for the military. This perception, while inconclusive, adds to the already existing distrust and skepticism among serving members.

A Call for Respect and Transformation

A leader who seeks to regain the trust and respect of serving military members must do more than just recite platitudes. They must demonstrate a genuine understanding and commitment to the values that they demand of their subordinates. It's not just about words; it's about actions. A true leader must be willing to stand by their troops, advocate for their needs, and honor their sacrifices. This transformation is not just beneficial for the troops but also for the stability and effectiveness of the military as a whole.

In conclusion, the decline in Trump's popularity among serving military members is a symptom of a broader issue. It reflects a values gap between the leader and the led. Resolving this issue requires a transformation in leadership qualities, a return to valuing and respecting the sacrifices of service members, and a commitment to the principles that bind us together as a nation.