President Trump Fires Defense Secretary Mark Esper Via Twitter

The transcript discusses the firing of Secretary of Defense Mark Esper by President Trump, announced via Twitter shortly after the 2020 election results. Esper had opposed the use of active military forces to control protests following George Floyd's death, which Trump had considered under the Insurrection Act. Rumors of Esper's resignation were denied by Pentagon officials. Historically, Trump has fired officials he perceives as disloyal, though no specific reason was given for Esper's dismissal. The Pentagon directed inquiries to the White House, which did not provide further comment.

What was the medium used by President Trump to announce Secretary Esper's termination?

• A television interview

• An official letter

• A Twitter post

• A press conference

What was Secretary Esper's stance on using military forces during the George Floyd protests?

• He believed military forces should be used as a first resort

• He supported the use of military forces

• He had no opinion on the matter

• He opposed using military forces and suggested they assist law enforcement only as a last resort

What act did President Trump threaten to use during the protests following George Floyd's death?

• The Patriot Act

• The Insurrection Act

• The Civil Rights Act

• The National Defense Authorization Act

What nickname did President Trump reportedly give to Secretary Esper?

• Mr. Yesper

• Mr. Defense

• Mr. Maybe

• Mr. No

What was the response from the Pentagon when asked about Esper's resignation rumors?

• They refused to comment

• They confirmed he had resigned

• They redirected inquiries to the White House

• They stated he had not written a resignation letter