WASHINGTON – Former President Donald Trump defended himself on Thursday, responding to remarks made by his ex-chief of staff, asserting that he is not a fascist but rather “the opposite” of Adolf Hitler.

Trump addressed the comments made by former White House Chief of Staff John Kelly, stating, “He made a statement that I’m like Hitler. It’s not true at all. It’s actually the complete opposite.”

Vice President Kamala Harris and her supporters are highlighting Kelly’s statements from earlier this week that appeared in The New York Times.

In his comments, Kelly argued that Trump’s actions align with the general definition of fascism. “He certainly falls into that definition,” Kelly remarked.

Additionally, Kelly noted that Trump previously remarked that “Hitler did some good things, too.”

Those in Trump’s camp maintain that Kelly’s comments stem from a personal vendetta after being dismissed.

During his interview with Fox News Channel’s Bill Melugin, Trump shared, “I fired him. He was a bully, a bad guy, and ultimately a weak individual because all bullies turn out weak. He also wasn’t very smart, which is a poor mix.”

Critics urged the public to consider where the allegations against Trump are coming from.

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg remarked on his personal X account that “It’s one thing for a leftist group to label you a fascist. It’s entirely different when it’s said by a fellow Republican, and especially shocking when it’s from your own chief of staff.”