On Monday, the Pentagon announced it is conducting a thorough review of serious allegations of misconduct against Arizona Senator Mark Kelly. This investigation stems from a video created by Kelly and five other Democratic lawmakers, which urged military personnel to refuse to follow unlawful orders. This controversial video has drawn sharp criticism, including accusations of treason from former President Donald Trump, who labeled the lawmakers as "traitors" and characterized their statements as "seditious behavior at the highest level."
In a statement shared on X, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth expressed strong disapproval of the video, referring to it as "despicable, reckless, and false." Hegseth emphasized that encouraging military members to ignore the orders of their commanders fundamentally undermines "every aspect of good order and discipline." He pointed out that while five of the six individuals featured in the video are not under the jurisdiction of the Department of War, Mark Kelly, as a retired U.S. Navy captain, remains subject to the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ).
The Pentagon confirmed that a comprehensive review of the allegations has been initiated, which could lead to several outcomes, including a recall to active duty for court-martial proceedings or administrative measures against Kelly. The statement from the Pentagon ensured that the matter would be handled in strict compliance with military law, upholding due process and impartiality.
In a video posted on X on November 18, Senator Kelly asserted, "Our laws are clear: you can refuse illegal orders." The five other Democratic lawmakers who echoed this sentiment include Michigan Senator Elissa Slotkin, Colorado Representative Jason Crow, New Hampshire Representative Maggie Goodlander, and Pennsylvania Representatives Chris Deluzio and Chrissy Houlahan.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump reacted vehemently to the video, stating, "Each one of these traitors to our Country should be ARRESTED AND PUT ON TRIAL." He warned that their statements should not be allowed to stand, declaring, "We won't have a Country anymore!!! An example MUST BE SET."
The Pentagon reiterated the legal obligations of military personnel in its Monday statement, reminding all individuals that military retirees remain subject to the UCMJ for applicable offenses. Additionally, federal laws such as 18 U.S.C. § 2387 prohibit actions intended to disrupt the loyalty, morale, or good order and discipline of the armed forces. The statement concluded by emphasizing that all servicemembers have a legal obligation under the UCMJ to obey lawful orders, which are presumed to be lawful, irrespective of an individual’s personal beliefs.