Trump's Pentagon Purge: How Ex-President Sacked Defence Chief Days After Capitol Riot
Trump's Pentagon purge after Capitol riot revealed

In a stunning revelation that exposes the chaotic final days of his administration, Donald Trump executed a dramatic purge of Pentagon leadership just 72 hours after the January 6th Capitol insurrection, according to explosive testimony obtained by The Independent.

Christopher Miller, then-acting defence secretary, was abruptly removed from his position despite having served merely three months. The shocking dismissal occurred amidst unprecedented security concerns following the violent attack on the heart of American democracy.

Political Interference in National Security

Miller's testimony before the House January 6th Committee paints a disturbing picture of political manoeuvring within the highest levels of national security. The timing of his removal, coupled with Trump's established pattern of installing loyalists, suggests a deliberate attempt to control defence mechanisms during a period of constitutional crisis.

'The timing raises profound questions about Trump's intentions during those turbulent days,' noted a senior defence analyst. 'Replacing your defence chief immediately after an attempted insurrection isn't normal procedure—it's a red flag.'

Guard Deployment Delays and Controversy

The controversy deepens when examining the delayed deployment of the Washington National Guard during the Capitol siege. Miller's testimony acknowledges these delays but maintains the decision-making process remained within proper channels, despite overwhelming evidence of communication breakdowns and political hesitation.

Key revelations include:

  • Miller assumed office on November 9th, 2020, following Trump's election defeat
  • The Pentagon experienced unprecedented turnover with multiple acting officials
  • Critical hours passed before National Guard reinforcements received approval
  • Trump's inner circle maintained unusual contact with defence officials

Constitutional Crisis and Legacy

This testimony adds crucial context to the January 6th investigation, revealing how Trump systematically reshaped defence leadership to include officials perceived as more loyal to his personal agenda than to constitutional norms. The rapid personnel changes disrupted continuity at the Pentagon during one of America's most vulnerable periods.

'What emerges is a pattern of behaviour aimed at consolidating control over institutions designed to remain non-partisan,' commented a national security expert. 'The defence department should never become a political instrument, yet evidence suggests precisely that occurred.'

As the investigation continues, Miller's account provides critical insight into the mechanisms of power Trump employed in his final weeks in office, leaving lasting questions about the politicisation of America's defence infrastructure.