Former Pence National Security Advisor Gen. Keith Kellogg (ret.) on Monday threw his support behind former President Donald Trump instead of his old boss, saying that former Vice President Mike Pence appears more concerned with his political future than the issues that matter to voters.
“I’ve worked alongside many leaders in my years of service to this Nation,” he posted on Truth Social. “Among them, President Donald J. Trump stands apart as a figure of unwavering determination, a deep vision for America, and the courage to take a stand where others wilt. His bold and dramatic leadership style during his Presidency resulted in significant achievements for our country.”
“For a period of time in the White House, I served as the National Security Advisor to Vice President Pence,” he continued, “While I respect his service to our Nation, I must express my disappointment in his reaction actions regarding President Trump. it is not the decisive leadership that we have seen from President Trump. Where President Trump is bold and unafraid to challenge the status quo, Pence has often chosen the passive route, avoiding confrontation.”
“This lack of assertiveness, combined with an overreliance on failed political consultants like Marc Short, has demonstrated a laisse-faire leadership style unworthy of the presidency,” he further contended. “While President Trump has consistently put America first, prioritizing our citizens, our economy, and global standing, Pence’s actions have often seemed more focused on political maneuvering and maintaining his image.”
“That is not what Republican voters went. President Trump’s dedication to the prosperity and security of the United States is unwavering, as is his vision for the future. I believe in the future President Trump envisions. A future that demands both and decisive leadership, something we have seen in President Trump but not from the former Vice President.”
Pence is currently polling in fourth for the Republican nomination, behind Trump, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, and tech mogul Vivek Ramaswamy. Kellogg’s statement comes amid a report from Fox News that the former vice president has managed to qualify for the first primary debate, setting up a potential showdown with his former running mate.