Why is it so important for retired leaders to stay out of politics?

Why shouldn't they? They are civilians now. look at them the same way you look a the Hollywood types.

Retired military are citizens, free to engage in the political process. We were a part of fighting to protect the right to free speech. We know what sacrifices military personnel make. It would be a disservice not to add our voice to public discourse on politics.

I think most responders have missed the point. There is a key difference is just merely expressing your opinions or running for office (as a retired military) and publicly endorsing a candidate with official Republican or Democratic backing. Using or attaching your rank to your opinions defeats the purpose of keeping the military neutral. I think LTC Corbari is attempting a different discussion: should high ranking military (retired or not) remain neutral in political campaigns? Should they speak at party conventions?

I guess I'm not quite cynical enough to believe that generals who have dealt with career politicians are unqualified for politics. I will make an exception for some generals who believe that diatribes on the national stage are appropriate behaviour. That being the case, I always consider the source and look up any such general's background. I believe generals with Combat Action Ribbons, awards for valour, and a succession of successful combat assignments.

Patton

I'm an old guy, but my highest permanent rank, after being drafted, was 1LT via OCS So, I guess that would make me "rank wise" a junior folk. Since one of my favorite Presidents, during my lifetime, was Ike, I beg to differ. And I have been in Officers Clubs at various functions hearing bickering amongst the General ranks about a whole host of topics. Why should they "know better", aren't they allowed the same freedom of speech as the rest of us once they return to civilian life ? Would they bring harm to the Democracy or shame to their former branch ? I would heartily support Colin Powell running against the two existing candidates. So, there's my two cents, Colonel.

Who in the hell said that???
This administration has done a fine job at cutting the "knowledgeable brass" with the experience needed to do the job the right way. There are too many Limp wristed, Politically Correct, Liberals
that are killing the services...just what the admin. wants and is doing!

With all due respect, I believe that every former serviceman, from Private to General, from Seaman to Admiral, has both a right and a duty to participate in the political process that keeps the country going. This includes speaking out in private and in public when they feel it is necessary and appropriate. We have training and experiences, expertise and knowledge that civilians don't have and that ought to be taken into account when electing the people whose policies will affect the military.

You certainly wouldn't argue that a former Private or Lieutenant shouldn't speak in support of a candidate. At what rank would you draw the line, and why should someone with far greater expertise sit tacit while the rest of us run our yaps freely?

Sp4 Byron Skinner…When an officer retires from the military he/she become just another citizen…with the education and career accomplishments of many retired officers politics is a natural…That said though I don't think retired officers who get involved in politics such as Lt. General Mike Flynn who is Trumps military/national affairs advisor, who made a trip to Moscow, Russia to attend a Banquet, yet right…Lt. General Flynn for former director of the DNI who was fired after one year of a two year assignment for lack of competence, should not have made a personal visit to Russia while an advisor or a future advisor to a political campaign. Discretion is something that it seems is not taught to ranking military officers.

Sir, Officers are members of the Political Elite - which they get their Marching Orders from the Civilian Sector. Enlisted obtain Guidance and Leadership from the Officer Ranks, and thus are not a part of the Political Elite. What politicians love most are Retired Officers, those who know just as much as themselves, or may know more. Officers are the pivotal Endorsement Magnet, General Powell, and others, as an example. Officers are the Golden Boy for those seeking Political Might, thus they are symbols politicians wear across their chest and symbols don't speak. Be careful Sir, with what you seek, for what the political might won't share with you is simple - "What is the FIRST RULE in dealing with the Devil?" The answer is precise... "DON'T!"