As the Trump presidency winds down, it’s becoming increasingly difficult for the U.S. military to protect its essential position — at a neutral remove from politics.

The Trump campaign has accused some military members, who move frequently, of criminal voter fraud in Nevada. And after the election, President Donald Trump abruptly fired Defense Secretary Mark Esper and brought in loyalists for several top Pentagon positions.

Given that a new commander-in-chief will take the helm in two months, it’s especially concerning. National security requires a rock-steady military during the transition. As Gen. Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, noted: “We are unique among militaries … we do not take an oath to an individual.”