06/07/2026
Buttigieg and Walz Criticize Trump Over Alleged Comments on U.S. Troops
Washington, D.C. – Former Democratic presidential candidate Pete Buttigieg and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz issued a joint statement sharply criticizing former President Donald Trump, accusing him of disrespecting American service members.
Buttigieg, a Navy veteran, said Trump has referred to American soldiers as “stupid” and “losers,” remarks that have been widely reported from anonymous sources during Trump’s first term. “As a veteran who served this country, I cannot and will not accept a man like him as President of the United States,” Buttigieg stated. “Trump does not respect sacrifice. He does not respect the Constitution. And he does not respect the human dignity of the American people.”
Walz, who served in the National Guard, echoed the criticism. “Trump has shown time and time again that he has zero respect for those who wear the uniform,” he said. “He mocks the very men and women who put their lives on the line to defend this nation. This is not leadership — this is disgraceful.”
The two Democratic leaders argued that Trump’s reported attitude toward the military reflects a broader disregard for duty, honor, and American values.
The statement drew swift reactions. Veterans’ organizations and progressive groups applauded Buttigieg and Walz for highlighting what they called a moral issue. Trump supporters, however, rejected the claims as recycled political attacks, pointing to the former president’s record of increased military funding, veterans’ reforms, and strong support from many active-duty personnel and veterans during his campaigns.
The exchange underscores ongoing partisan divisions over Trump’s character and his relationship with the U.S. military as the 2028 political landscape begins to take shape.
