On this day in 2018, Donald Trump fired Secretary of State Rex Tillerson amid reports that Tillerson called him a “moron” after a meeting in which Trump suggested an unrealistic (and dangerous) tenfold increase in the U.S. nuclear arsenal.
The leaked comments raised tensions in an already uneasy relationship between Trump and Tillerson during a time of high-stakes negotiations with North Korea (which Trump undermined on social media). Tillerson’s anger with Trump reportedly resulted in previous attempts to resign months before his dismissal.
American Bridge 21st Century Presidential Campaigns Communications Director Brandon Weathersby released the following statement in observation of the anniversary:
“Rex Tillerson wasn’t fired because of his work performance, he was fired because he dared to speak out against Trump’s dangerous and harmful ideas. Trump fired or forced resignations from many White House officials who disagreed with him both in public and in private. In a second term, we can be sure Trump will install loyalists from day one who will enable his worst instincts and not hesitate to carry out his extreme agenda.”
Published: Mar 13, 2024 | Last Modified: Mar 20, 2024