Former President Donald Trump faced backlash after visiting Arlington National Cemetery with Gold Star military families, including the sister of Sgt. Nicole Gee, who was killed in the Afghanistan bombing in 2021. Trump’s campaign defended the visit, stating that he was invited by the families to honor their loved ones’ sacrifices. The families accused Vice President Kamala Harris of politicizing the event and disrespecting the sacred grounds.
Harris had criticized Trump’s visit as a political stunt and blamed him for the deaths of the service members. Trump, however, thanked the families for inviting him and emphasized that he was there to pay his respects. The families’ statement condemned Harris for twisting the solemn occasion for political gain.
The controversy surrounding Trump’s visit to Arlington escalated as defense officials reported an altercation between his campaign staff and a cemetery employee over taking photographs. Trump’s campaign has since criticized Pentagon officials and accused them of bias.
Throughout his campaign, Trump has targeted Harris and the Biden administration for their handling of the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan. He has emphasized the need for a dignified exit from the country but criticized the execution by the current administration. The families of fallen service members have been vocal in their support of Trump, with some appearing at campaign events and media appearances.
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