Key Takeaways:

• Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has revoked former Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Mark Milley’s security detail and clearance amid ongoing tensions with Trump.
• The revocation comes with an ordered investigation into Milley’s conduct during his tenure, raising concerns over civil-military relations.
• Critics argue the move jeopardizes Milley’s safety and sends a chilling message to military leaders about dissent against the administration.
• Democratic leaders are vocally opposed to the actions, while no Republican leaders have publicly condemned the decision.

The Pentagon announced that retired General Mark Milley, former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, has had his security clearance and protective detail removed by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. This decision follows Milley's vocal criticisms of former President Donald Trump, with whom he has engaged in a protracted feud. Pentagon spokesperson John Ullyot confirmed that Hegseth had directed the Office of the Inspector General to review Milley's actions during his service, potentially leading to the demotion of a retired four-star general's military status. The investigation will explore the circumstances that led to the revocation of his clearance, as reported on Los Angeles Times.

This action represents a significant escalation in Milley’s contentious relationship with Trump, who had previously described the general's independent communications with his Chinese counterpart as treasonous. Critics, including lawmakers and civil-military experts, have labeled the move as unprecedented in civil-military relations and have voiced concerns about its implications for military leadership in the future. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) described this revocation as “another act of retribution and revenge that shows the smallness of the president,” according to The Hill.

MSNBC’s Morning Joe hosts were particularly vocal, asserting that Milley is now at risk from foreign threats due to the loss of federal protection. Co-host Joe Scarborough warned that this increase in danger stems from Trump’s public hostility towards Milley, which, combined with the security revocation, places the retired general in jeopardy. “It’s a depressing move but entirely predictable,” Scarborough said, reflecting a sentiment that resonates with many in political circles according to The Daily Beast.

Hegseth’s chief of staff, Joe Kasper, asserted that Milley's actions undermined the chain of command, leading to concerns about national security. The Pentagon’s assertion that it is restoring accountability under Trump's leadership hints at the administration's desire to control dissent within military ranks. Milley’s historical actions, including the controversial role he played during protests linked to social justice, have contributed to the schism between him and Trump as reported by USA Today.

Democratic senators like Jack Reed remarked that revoking Milley’s protection amid credible threats against him could set a dangerous precedent for how military leaders engage with political leadership. Reed condemned the decision as "recklessly negligent," arguing it places Milley and his family in significant danger. This sentiment aligns with calls from experts and lawmakers alike who see the move as an attack on military authority, potentially deterring other high-ranking officers from offering candid advice to their superiors according to Los Angeles Times.

Former President Biden had previously issued a preemptive pardon for Milley, which many hope will shield him from potential repercussions that may arise from this latest development. Despite the seriousness of these actions, Republican politicians have largely refrained from commenting publicly, indicating potential dissonance within the party regarding the administration's approach to dissent. As this situation unfolds, it raises critical questions about the changing dynamics of civil-military relations in an increasingly politicized environment.

For a complete overview, check out the original articles in full: USA Today, Los Angeles Times, The Daily Beast, and The Hill.