Retired U.S. Navy Admiral Bill McRaven lashed out at President Donald Trump's label of the media as "the enemy of the American people," saying "this sentiment may be the greatest threat to democracy in my lifetime," the Austin-American-Statesman reported.
McRaven, former commander of the Special Operations Command, is now the University of Texas System Chancellor.
He said the nation needs journalists now more than ever before. And, he added, they must continue to hold others accountable.
On Feb. 17, Trump tweeted:
The Hill reported McRaven had advised former Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama and helped oversee the mission that killed Osama bin Laden.
The website noted he had previously opposed Trump's immigration order.
"I believe that the talent, energy, and ideas flowing into the United States of America — and to UT System institutions — from countries around the world are among our greatest strengths," he said last month.
"The men who show up at our shores and our doors — ready to study, work, and participate — make us stronger, smarter, more competitive, and more attuned to the rest of the globe.
"I would hope that my commitment to our nation's security cannot be questioned. I stand behind our nation's efforts to ensure all our citizens are free from the threat that terrorism can bring to our shores."
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