Backlash Ensues for John Kirby over Controversial 9/11 Email

White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby faces backlash after an offensive email about veterans was accidentally sent to Fox News on the anniversary of 9/11.

At a Glance

Kirby’s email dismissed veterans’ concerns as “a ‘handful’ of vets indeed and all of one stripe”
The email was sent on the anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, intensifying public outrage
Veterans and politicians criticized Kirby’s comments as callous and disrespectful
The incident follows a House Republicans’ report criticizing the administration’s handling of the Afghanistan withdrawal

Kirby’s Controversial Email Sparks Outrage

On the solemn anniversary of the September 11th attacks, White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby found himself at the center of a controversy that has ignited anger among veterans and the public. Kirby inadvertently sent an email to Fox News containing dismissive comments about veterans who were criticizing the Biden administration’s handling of the Afghanistan withdrawal.

The email, which was intended for internal White House staff, read: “Obviously no use in responding. A ‘handful’ of vets indeed and all of one stripe.” This careless remark, made on a day of national remembrance, has led to widespread condemnation and calls for accountability.

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Veterans and Politicians Respond

The backlash was swift and severe. Veterans groups and politicians from both sides of the aisle expressed their dismay at Kirby’s apparent disregard for the concerns of those who have served our nation. The timing of the email, coinciding with the anniversary of one of America’s darkest days, only served to amplify the outcry.

“The bottom line is that the Biden-Harris administration chose politics over strategy, and Kirby, who I wouldn’t trust to guard my grocery list, is now trying to cover for them,” Rep. Cory Mills said. – Source

This scathing rebuke from Rep. Mills, himself a veteran, underscores the depth of frustration felt by many who have served in uniform. The sentiment that the administration is prioritizing political expediency over the well-being and concerns of veterans has struck a chord with many Americans who hold our military in high regard.

The Afghanistan Withdrawal Controversy

Kirby’s email gaffe comes in the wake of a 350-page report released by the House Foreign Affairs Committee, which sharply criticized the Biden administration’s handling of the Afghanistan withdrawal. The report alleges that the administration failed to adequately plan for the evacuation of American citizens and Afghan allies, leading to chaos and loss of life.

“Obviously no use in responding. A ‘handful’ of vets indeed and all of one stripe,” Kirby wrote in the email that has sparked this controversy. – Source

This dismissive attitude towards veterans’ concerns has not only damaged Kirby’s credibility but has also raised questions about the administration’s overall respect for those who have served our country. The incident has reignited debates about the Afghanistan withdrawal and its long-term implications for U.S. foreign policy and national security.

White House Response and Fallout

In the aftermath of this PR disaster, the White House has remained conspicuously silent. Kirby himself attempted to do damage control by sending a follow-up email to Fox News, stating, “Clearly, I didn’t realize you were on the chain.” This half-hearted acknowledgment has done little to quell the growing storm of criticism.

As the controversy continues to unfold, many are calling for a formal apology from Kirby and a clear statement from the White House reaffirming its commitment to veterans. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of treating our nation’s heroes with the respect and dignity they deserve, especially on a day that holds such profound significance for all Americans.