URGENT UPDATE: The FBI has officially requested interviews with Democratic lawmakers who recently urged servicemembers to defy illegal orders. This development comes amid escalating tensions with President Trump, who has called for the imprisonment of these Congress members over their video message directed at military personnel.
Earlier today, four House members — all military veterans — confirmed the FBI’s outreach in a statement. They expressed their refusal to comply with what they termed intimidation tactics from the administration. “No amount of intimidation or harassment will ever stop us from doing our jobs and honoring our Constitution,” they declared. This statement underscores the rising stakes in a heated political climate.
The lawmakers, including Senator Mark Kelly and Senator Elissa Slotkin, featured in a video last week that urged servicemembers to reject any orders they deemed illegal. Although they did not specify any particular orders from Trump, their message raised alarms about potential violations of military ethics. The Defense Department is now investigating Senator Kelly, which could lead to his recall to active duty for court martial.
In a statement released on July 31, 2023, the Defense Department confirmed, “A thorough review of these allegations has been initiated to determine further actions.” This investigation highlights the serious ramifications for those involved in the video, which Trump labeled as “seditious” on social media platforms.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has also weighed in, stating that the lawmakers’ rhetoric undermines military trust and cohesion. He referred to the group as the “Seditious Six,” intensifying the controversy surrounding their actions. Hegseth emphasized, “The military does not need political actors injecting doubt into an already clear chain of command,” asserting the need for discipline within military ranks.
Critics of the administration, including former Congressman Justin Amash, have condemned the threats against these lawmakers. He stated that Hegseth’s actions warrant impeachment, arguing that the video’s message is protected under freedom of speech. Amash remarked, “His effort to mislead millions of Americans about the Constitution… is abhorrent.”
As this situation continues to unfold, the implications for military personnel and Congress are profound. The lawmakers have vowed to stand firm, stating, “We swore an oath to support and defend the Constitution of the United States. That oath lasts a lifetime, and we intend to keep it. We will not be bullied.”
The coming days will be critical as the FBI’s investigations progress and the Defense Department decides on its next steps regarding Senator Kelly. Observers are watching closely to see how this unprecedented clash will impact military protocol and political discourse in America.
