Trump Accused Of Throwing Who Under The Bus?
A new political clash erupted Monday after Rep. Seth Moulton (D-Mass.) claimed the Trump administration was “clearly” blaming Navy Adm. Frank Bradley for a controversial strike on an alleged drug-trafficking vessel in the Caribbean.
The accusation is the latest effort by House Democrats to undercut President Trump’s aggressive crackdown on narcoterrorist networks operating near U.S. waters.
Moulton made the claim on CNN, arguing—without evidence—that the administration was “throwing the admiral under the bus.” He also repeated the familiar Democratic line that the White House “doesn’t respect our uniformed services,” a narrative conservatives have repeatedly rejected.
White House Confirms Mission Authorization as Democrats Push Scandal Narrative
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed Monday that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth authorized the initial September 2 strike on the suspected narcoterrorist boat.
She also stated that Adm. Bradley ordered a follow-up strike when survivors were found clinging to the wrecked vessel — an action now fueling political attacks from both sides of the aisle.
Reports indicate two individuals died in the second strike, prompting questions from lawmakers about whether the engagement fell within the rules of war.
Trump Administration Stands Firm: ‘Narcoterrorist Groups Are Lawful Targets’
Despite the noise from Washington, the Trump administration maintains the operation was legal and necessary to protect U.S. personnel and vital national interests.
“President Trump and Secretary Hegseth have made it clear that presidentially designated narcoterrorist groups are subject to lethal targeting in accordance with the laws of war,” Leavitt said.
She reiterated that Hegseth gave Adm. Bradley the authority to carry out the mission and that the military acted within established procedures.
Hegseth Defends Admiral Bradley and Calls Him an ‘American Hero’
Hegseth pushed back hard on critics Monday, posting a forceful defense of the admiral on X.
“Let’s make this crystal clear: Admiral Mitch Bradley is an American hero and a true professional. He has my full support,” Hegseth wrote.
“I stand by him and the combat decisions he made — on this mission and every mission since.”
His message directly undercuts the Democratic claim that Bradley is being scapegoated.
White House Reaffirms Strike Was Lawful and Conducted in Self-Defense
On Tuesday, White House spokesperson Anna Kelly told The Hill that Bradley “lawfully ordered the September strike,” stressing that it was carried out “in self-defense to protect Americans and vital United States interests.”
The administration has made clear that it will not back down from operations targeting drug-cartel networks, which continue to threaten U.S. borders, American service members, and partner nations in the region.
