FT News Briefing Pentagon chief breaks with Trump, hydroxychloroquine, Warner Music IPO
Jun 4, 2020
Tensions rise as US Defense Secretary Mark Esper publicly opposes Trump's push for military intervention in protests, drawing criticism from former officials. A new study raises doubts about hydroxychloroquine's effectiveness against COVID-19. Amidst social unrest, the importance of peaceful protests is emphasized. Meanwhile, Warner Music achieves a landmark IPO, marking a major milestone in a turbulent economic landscape. The discussions highlight the intersection of politics, public health, and the music industry's resilience.
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Esper Breaks with Trump
- Defense Secretary Mark Esper publicly broke with President Trump, refusing to deploy active duty military to quell protests.
- This signifies a clear rift, as Esper prioritizes keeping the military apolitical and under state control, not federal.
Mattis Criticizes Trump
- Former Defense Secretary Jim Mattis criticized President Trump for dividing the American people.
- This public rebuke from a respected former official further isolates the president.
Esper Addresses Racism
- Esper's statement that the Department of Defense is apolitical is itself a political stance, given Trump's emphasis on loyalty.
- He also directly addressed systemic racism, a topic Trump has avoided, further distancing himself.