The FBI and the Department of Justice have contacted Capitol Police regarding interviews with six Democratic members of Congress. They participated in a controversial video encouraging military personnel to reject what they might interpret as unlawful orders.
Details of the Controversial Video
This video features lawmakers with military and intelligence experience. Notable participants include:
- Sen. Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.)
- Sen. Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.)
- Rep. Chris Deluzio (D-Pa.)
- Rep. Maggie Goodlander (D-N.H.)
- Rep. Chrissy Houlahan (D-Pa.)
- Rep. Jason Crow
In the clip, they state, “Our laws are clear. You can refuse illegal orders.” This message raised significant concerns among military leaders.
Government Reaction
In response to the video, former President Donald Trump called for the arrest of the lawmakers for “seditious behavior,” emphasizing the seriousness of their actions.
The Department of War has initiated a formal review regarding allegations of misconduct specifically against Senator Mark Kelly. As a retired Navy captain, he faces the possibility of being summoned back to active duty for court-martial proceedings or other actions under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ).
Impact on Military Cohesion
Secretary of War Pete Hegseth condemned the video. He described it as a politically motivated effort to create doubt within the military ranks. Additionally, he noted that it used ambiguous language that could undermine trust in the chain of command.
Hegseth pointed out that clear procedures already exist for handling unlawful orders in the military. He criticized the lawmakers for potentially harming military cohesion by promoting distrust through their message.
Concerns Over Military Order and Obedience
The military community reacted strongly to the video’s implications. Hegseth emphasized the need for clear communication within the armed forces, warning against the inclusion of political agendas in discussions about military orders.
This incident sheds light on the critical balance between political speech and military regulation, particularly in the context of legal duties and obedience to lawful commands.
