#cmr #openlettertoCJCS
if you want proof that talking openly about how the military engages in political behavior is unpopular, look at #cmr reactions to @DrJohnNagl ‘s letter:

Stupid / irresponsible/ so dumb / reckless etc

I’ll take the reputational hit and support the letter/

/ Reaction 1: this is not mil’s job. Response: obviously not in a healthy democracy, but the scenario is refusal of incumbent to transfer powers, which seems realistic to me

/ reaction 2: there are other entities that will do this without throwing the baby out with the bath water. Response: great, that’s much better. But if those agencies don’t do anything, then is there a role for the mil? Wouldn’t it be prudent to talk this through now?

/ reaction 3: only amateurs and brutalists would ever suggest the mil has a role in this sacred process. Reply: normally I’d agree, but I agree with the authors that the US is drifting into a risk period that is unique and we are simply debating that unique scenario

/ reaction 4: reading this type of stuff makes you stupider. Response: my goal on this topic is always to break the logjam of discussion around military-political behavior. The scenario IS new. Let’s discuss it with the usual civility and seek an informed opinion

Anyway, this thread is my attempt to challenge the takes I’ve seen by my more learned colleagues. I’m disappointed the reaction has been so dismissive. For those who see no danger to American democracy, then yes the letter is nuts. For those who do, let’s discuss what’s right