Joan Esposito is joined by Army Maj. Gen. Randy Manner (Ret.), former acting vice chair of the National Guard Bureau, and member of National Security Leaders for America (NSL4A).

Manner discussed the Pentagon's proposal to use Charlie Kirk's death as a recruitment tool, condemning it as inappropriate politicization of the military. He criticized the Trump administration's removal of senior military officers, particularly women and people of color, and the purging of Judge Advocate General (JAG) officers, which he warned could lead to unlawful actions and endanger lives. Manner emphasized the need for congressional approval for military appointments and highlighted the importance of maintaining the military's apolitical nature. He also noted the potential for reinstating removed officers in future administrations and the legal consequences for retired officers who break the law.

Catch "Joan Esposito: Live, Local and Progressive" weekdays from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive).