The Pentagon has announced that it is investigating Democratic Senator Mark Kelly from Arizona, a former U.S. Navy Captain, following his involvement in a video urging service members and intelligence community members to refuse illegal orders. This investigation comes amid serious allegations of misconduct against Kelly. The Pentagon has initiated a thorough review to determine the appropriate actions, which could include a recall to active duty for court-martial proceedings or other administrative measures.
Senator Kelly expressed his surprise about the ongoing investigation, revealing that he learned of it through social media. In a statement on the platform X, he asserted, "If this is meant to intimidate me and other members of Congress from doing our jobs and holding this administration accountable, it won't work." He emphasized his commitment to the Constitution, stating, "I've given too much to this country to be silenced by bullies who care more about their own power than protecting the Constitution."
Last week, Senator Kelly was part of a group of six Democratic lawmakers who released a video that called on military personnel and intelligence community members to defy illegal orders, citing potential threats to the Constitution. The group included notable figures such as Senator Elissa Slotkin of Michigan, Representatives Jason Crow of Colorado, Chris Deluzio and Chrissy Houlahan of Pennsylvania, as well as Maggie Goodlander of New Hampshire. All of these lawmakers are veterans and former national security officials.
The Pentagon cited federal laws that prohibit actions likely to interfere with the loyalty, morale, or discipline of the armed forces. In a social media post, they declared that any violations would be addressed through appropriate legal channels. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth labeled the video as "despicable, reckless, and false," claiming that encouraging service members to disregard their commanders undermines the essential principles of good order and discipline.
Hegseth pointed out that while five of the six lawmakers in the video do not fall under the Pentagon's jurisdiction, Senator Kelly does. He stated, "Kelly knows that." The Defense Secretary emphasized that the Department is reviewing Kelly's statements and actions, particularly because he addressed his remarks directly to troops while leveraging his military rank, which could lend an appearance of authority to his words. Hegseth concluded that Kelly's conduct brings discredit upon the armed forces and will be addressed appropriately.
In the wake of the video release, former President Donald Trump has been vocal in his opposition, calling for the lawmakers to be arrested and face trial for what he termed "seditious behavior." Trump has made provocative statements on social media, including a post that read, “SEDITIOUS BEHAVIOR, punishable by DEATH!” He later clarified that he was not threatening death but suggested that they are "in serious trouble."
In a recent appearance on Face the Nation, Senator Kelly cautioned that Trump's words could have significant repercussions. He stated, "His words carry tremendous weight, more so than anybody else in the country, and he should be aware of that." Kelly highlighted that the former president's rhetoric has led to increased threats against him and his colleagues.
This situation continues to develop, and the outcomes of the Pentagon’s investigation into Senator Kelly could have lasting implications for military conduct and civilian oversight of the armed forces.