This is Gavin Newsom And, This is Secretary Leon Panetta
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Jul 1, 2025 Former Defense Secretary Leon Panetta shares insights from his extensive public service career. He discusses the implications of deploying military forces in California and warns against the dangers of politicizing the National Guard. Leon emphasizes the need to revive Congress's role in maintaining democratic checks and balances, calling for active citizenship. He also highlights challenges facing democracy today while fostering optimism about public commitment to constitutional values.
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Military's Proper Role
- The military's primary role is defending against foreign threats, not domestic law enforcement.
- Politicizing military deployment weakens national security and public trust in the armed forces.
California's National Guard Wildfire Role
- California deployed 3,000 National Guard for wildfire defense and support quickly.
- Using them for unrelated military duties demoralizes guardsmen and undermines their purpose.
Respect Military Over Politics
- Using active military personnel for political rallies demeans their mission.
- Leaders must respect troops' role to defend democracy, not favor partisan interests.