The Department of War has initiated a formal review into allegations against Captain Mark Kelly, USN (Ret.), following a video in which six Democratic members of Congress encouraged U.S. military personnel to refuse ‘illegal orders.’ President Trump condemned the lawmakers, urging their arrest for ‘seditious behavior,’ while the Pentagon warned that Kelly could be recalled to active duty for court-martial proceedings under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). Secretary of War Pete Hegseth described the video as a ‘politically-motivated influence operation,’ citing its use of ‘carefully scripted, legal-sounding language’ and lack of specific ‘illegal order’ references.
The Department of War emphasized that military retirees remain subject to UCMJ for applicable offenses, including federal laws prohibiting actions that interfere with the loyalty, morale, or discipline of the armed forces. It reiterated that servicemembers must obey lawful orders, with personal philosophy not excusing disobedience of otherwise lawful commands.
In response to the video, FBI Director Kash Patel stated that career agents and analysts will determine if there is a lawful predicate for an inquiry into the Democratic lawmakers who urged military disobeedience. ‘Based on the fact that it’s an ongoing matter, there’s not much I can say,’ he added in an interview.
The House Democrats’ offices confirmed the FBI’s attempt to schedule interviews, asserting that the president is using the agency as a tool to intimidate and harass members of Congress. ‘No amount of intimidation or harassment will ever stop us from doing our jobs and honoring our Constitution,’ they said in a statement, emphasizing their commitment to support and defend the U.S. Constitution.
Slotkin, a former CIA officer, criticized the FBI’s actions, stating that President Trump is weaponizing the federal government against perceived enemies and not abiding by laws. ‘This isn’t just about a video. This is not the America I know,’ she said, vowing not to let the next step from the FBI stop her from speaking up for her country and Constitution.
