Pentagon Launches Probe Into Democratic Senator
The U.S. Department of Defense has initiated a formal investigation into Democratic Senator Mark Kelly of Arizona following a controversial video addressing military personnel. The probe comes after President Donald Trump called for punishment against a group of lawmakers who publicly advised intelligence community and military members to disobey orders that would break the law.
Investigation Details and Military Justice Threat
In a social media announcement, the Defense Department revealed that the Arizona lawmaker and former U.S. Navy officer faces serious allegations of misconduct and could potentially face recall to active duty for court-martial proceedings or administrative measures. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, in a separate statement, emphasized that the Pentagon was thoroughly reviewing Kelly's statements and actions.
Hegseth noted that Kelly's remarks were addressed directly to all troops while explicitly using his rank and service affiliation, which lent the appearance of official authority to his words. The Defense Secretary concluded that Kelly's conduct brings discredit upon the armed forces and would be addressed appropriately through proper channels.
Political Fallout and Bipartisan Concerns
The investigation follows President Trump's aggressive response last week when he characterized six Democrats with military or national security backgrounds as guilty of sedition. The lawmakers had participated in a video arguing that intelligence and military officials could refuse illegal orders. Trump initially suggested in social media posts that the legislators could even face death for their remarks, sparking bipartisan concern over threats of political violence.
In response to the investigation, Senator Kelly stated that Hegseth's tweet marked the first he had heard of any potential probe. The senator defiantly responded: 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. I've given too much to this country to be silenced by bullies who care more about their own power than protecting the Constitution.
Defense officials clarified that Kelly was the only congressional participant in the video still subject to the Uniform Code of Military Justice as a retired officer. The other participants included former intelligence officials or individuals who had completely separated from military service.
Democratic lawmakers defended their video, emphasizing that they never instructed military members to ignore orders but only objected to potentially illegal actions. The video specifically stated: We know you are under enormous stress and pressure right now. Americans trust their military. But that trust is at risk. This administration is pitting our uniformed military and intelligence community professionals against American citizens.
The lawmakers also reported receiving threats following the incident and accused the president of inciting violence with his response.
Trump Backtracks on Death Penalty Remarks
President Trump subsequently moderated his position regarding potential punishment for the lawmakers. In a Fox News Radio interview on Friday, November 21, 2025, the president stated: I'm not threatening them, but I think they're in serious trouble. I would say they're in serious trouble. I'm not threatening death, but I think they're in serious trouble. In the old days, it was death.
The controversial video also featured several other Democratic lawmakers including Senator Elissa Slotkin of Michigan, who organized the project, and Representatives Jason Crow, Chris Deluzio, Chrissy Houlahan, and Maggie Goodlander. The incident represents one of the most significant confrontations between the administration and congressional lawmakers with military backgrounds.
