WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senator Jack Reed, the Ranking Member of the Armed Services Committee, issued the following statement:

“This was an outrageous, irresponsible interference by President Trump in the military justice system.  The White House’s handling of this matter erodes the basic command structure of the military and the basic function of the Uniform Code of Military Justice.

“It signals to people that they can operate outside the rule of law and the Geneva Convention.  Frankly, this is reminiscent of what happened leading up to Abu Ghraib, where the Bush Administration signaled that the rules don’t apply.  They were wrong then and President Trump is wrong now.

“Our military leaders work hard to instill integrity, good order, and discipline, all of which seem to be in short supply at the Trump White House. 

“We still need more information, and we’re working to get at the facts.  But clearly, Spencer’s forced resignation is another consequence of the disarray brought about by President Trump’s inappropriate involvement in the military justice system and the disorder and dysfunction that has been a constant presence in this Administration.”

Last week, Senator Reed spoke about this issue on the floor of the U.S. Senate.