Trump’s defense secretary says the former president 'is a threat to democracy'

Mark Esper, who served as the United States secretary of defense under Donald Trump, warned the former president “is a threat to democracy” — telling CNN Trump is “not right” and can’t beat President Joe Biden in the general election.

Esper on Tuesday was asked about a Washington Post article that revealed many of Trump’s former Cabinet members — including former chief of staff John Kelly — believe he’s unfit to hold office.

“You have previously said that Trump ‘unprincipled’ and should not be in the position of public service,” CNN’s Poppy Harlow began. “Will you work to publicly fight the lead that he has now or are you going to stay on the sidelines?”

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“I have been very clear about this matter for three years since my book came out,” Esper said. “I have been on the record multiple times and I don't think he should be president. I don't think he is qualified. I think he is a threat to democracy. I will do whatever i can to try to make sure that doesn't happen.”

Esper argued there are “good Republicans in the Republican primary that could deliver on conservative principles and goals and objectives, but also unify the party, and when put [them] in the White House … I think can unify the country.”

Asked to “elaborate” on what he’ll personally do to keep Trump out of office, Esper noted, "Here I am talking to you this morning trying to convince my fellow Republicans that Donald Trump is not right. I don't think Donald Trump can beat Joe Biden either. Other Republicans have said that. I want to do whatever I can to make sure that Donald Trump is not the nominee and we get a Republican in the Oval Office in 2025. “

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