Hillary Clinton called Donald Trump’s comments about veterans who have PTSD not just ignorant but “harmful.”
Speaking with reporters Tuesday after her campaign event in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, Clinton said Trump’s comments that veterans who need mental health assistance “can’t handle it” gave “voice to stigma” that can prevent them from coming forward and receiving care.
“Some of the strongest men and women any of us have ever met have experienced post-traumatic stress,” Clinton said. “Donald Trump’s comments are not just ignorant, they are harmful because they give voice to the stigmas that has led generations of veterans to hide their struggles instead of getting life-saving help. You know what doesn’t help with that? When a man asking to be our next commander in chief stands up and says post-traumatic stress isn’t a problem if you’re strong.”
Clinton said that compassion is key when advocating for veterans’ mental health.
“Every one of our troops matter,” she said. “Their wounds can be visible and invisible. Most of us know that but apparently Donald doesn’t. Our troops deserve a commander in chief who understands the sacrifices they make. Everyone deserves compassion whether they’ve ever served in uniform or not. So I hope the voters are hearing Donald Trump loudly and clearly.”
Two thumbs up!!! This needs to be a commercial on Fox and American Heroes Channel, which are watched almost exclusively by the military retirees.
As Hillary hits her stride, she continues to underscore the differences between the candidates.
Thanks for honoring and respecting our veterans and active military.
Trump is so off base here.
I’m not a veteran, but it seems to me if you’re exposed to the hell of war - to its stresses and horrors, perhaps seeing some of your close buddies injured, maimed, or killed -and you come out “normal”, I might worry about you.
Not only is it not “weak” to suffer from PTSD, I’d argue it’s a normal human reaction to extraordinary stress. We should understand it as such, and treat those folks appropriately without judgment.
Worse, it is something he knows absolutely nothing about, as he nor his children have ever served.
She’s right – and I really do hope more and more of our service members will stop to consider just what a Trump presidency would do to our nation’s security and our to those who choose to serve this nation in the Armed Forces. There is a lot at stake – and I honestly believe that Hillary Clinton is far and away the superior choice to be our Commander-in-Chief for the next four to eight years. I know that many of our active military are already supporting Hillary. I hope they can have a positive effect on their families and our retired members. Thank you.