In a recent appearance on Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan, Colorado Democratic Congressman Jason Crow discussed the implications of a video he released urging service members to defy illegal orders. The conversation delved into serious threats directed at Crow and his family, reportedly stemming from the fallout of this video. Crow, one of six lawmakers advocating for military personnel to uphold their constitutional obligations, emphasized the importance of lawful conduct.
During the interview, Brennan brought attention to alarming reports of a bomb threat against Crow's office in Aurora, Colorado, alongside disturbing death threats received by his family. The recorded threats included various calls, some wishing harm upon him and labeling him as un-American. In response to Brennan’s query about the credibility of these threats, Crow stated, "We don't know... but it’s very disturbing." He highlighted how such rhetoric from the President can incite violence, drawing parallels to the events of January 6, 2021, where similar dangerous language had dire consequences.
As the discussion progressed, Brennan pointed out that while the President had made threatening remarks on social media, he later attempted to clarify his statements, asserting he was not advocating for violence but was referring to historical consequences for sedition. Crow responded critically, labeling the President's language as irresponsible and dangerous, stating, "He is acting in an inciteful way." He underscored the disheartening reality that when lawmakers remind service members of their constitutional duties, they are met with threats rather than support.
In a related video, 15 House Republicans, including veterans and retired military officials, defended the President's authority and criticized Crow's call to action. They argued that his claims about illegal orders are harmful to military cohesion. Crow countered these assertions by emphasizing that the video clearly distinguished between lawful and unlawful orders and accused his colleagues of spreading misinformation. He stated, "They know the difference between lawful versus unlawful." Crow's goal was to spark a necessary dialogue about the potential misuse of military orders.
Margaret Brennan raised concerns about whether Crow's statements might pressure lower-ranking military personnel to make individual decisions regarding orders. Crow clarified that he was not advising service members to bypass established military protocols. Drawing from his experience during three combat deployments, he stressed the necessity of training soldiers on the law of war before they face real-life situations. "You can't wait until a soldier is in the moment... you have to train them," he explained.
As the conversation shifted towards Congress's role in military oversight, Crow expressed frustration about the lack of briefings and transparency regarding military operations and decisions. He criticized the current administration for hindering congressional oversight, stating, "I have never seen the lack of briefings and oversight." Crow pointed out that Congress must be involved in decisions regarding military actions and foreign policy, underscoring that such discussions should occur before sending service members into conflict.
In closing, Rep. Jason Crow reiterated the importance of accountability and lawful conduct within military operations. He emphasized that Congress must engage with the American public about military actions and the rationale behind them, advocating for a return to a more transparent decision-making process. Crow's commitment to uphold the law and remind service members of their constitutional duties remains steadfast, despite the threats and challenges he faces.