Pentagon opens probe into Democratic senator over ‘illegal orders’ message to troops
Pentagon Launches Rare Investigation into Sen. Mark Kelly
Tensions escalated in Washington on Monday after the Pentagon confirmed it is investigating Arizona Sen. Mark Kelly for appearing in a video advising U.S. service members that they “can refuse illegal orders.” The move marks one of the rare moments in modern history where the Defense Department targets a sitting senator — and a retired Navy captain — under the Uniform Code of Military Justice.
Kelly’s Message to Troops Sparks Military and Political Uproar
Kelly, a former Navy pilot and NASA astronaut, appeared in the video alongside several Democratic lawmakers with military backgrounds. Addressing service members directly, Kelly reminded them of their oath to the Constitution, stating that they are not obligated to follow unlawful commands.
Pentagon officials say those remarks may have affected “good order, discipline, or loyalty within the armed forces,” prompting a legal review that could theoretically recall Kelly to active duty for disciplinary action.
Hegseth Condemns Kelly’s Video; Senator Says He Won’t Be Intimidated
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth blasted the video as “reckless” and “false,” claiming Kelly’s conduct “brings discredit upon the armed forces.” Hegseth also emphasized that Kelly is the only participant legally subject to potential military prosecution due to his retired officer status.
Kelly responded by saying he learned of the investigation through Hegseth’s social-media post, calling it an attempt to intimidate him and other lawmakers. “If this is meant to stop us from holding this administration accountable, it won’t work,” he said.
Legal Uncertainty, Rising Tensions, and an Ongoing Pentagon Review
Legal experts say the case is unprecedented — no retired officer has ever been recalled for political speech as a sitting lawmaker. Analysts predict the Pentagon may face significant constitutional obstacles if it chooses to proceed.
Observers note that the episode illustrates deepening friction between Congress and the administration over military oversight, decision-making, and recent directives some critics argue may violate international law.
For now, the Pentagon’s review remains ongoing. No charges have been filed, and it is unclear what
Q: Who is Mark Kelly?
A: Mark Kelly is a U.S. Senator from Arizona, a former NASA astronaut, and a retired U.S. Navy captain. He has served in Congress since 2021 and is known for his military background and national security positions.
Q: Is “Senator Mark Kelly” still subject to military law?
A: Yes. Because Kelly is a retired Navy captain (often referred to as “Capt. Mark Kelly”), he remains technically subject to the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ), unlike most civilians or lawmakers.
Q: What did Pete Hegseth say about Mark Kelly?
A: Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth condemned Kelly’s video as “reckless” and “false,” calling it damaging to military discipline and stating the Pentagon would “address it appropriately.”
Q: What is Captain Mark Kelly’s response to the investigation?
A: Kelly said he learned about the review through Hegseth’s social-media post. He called the investigation an intimidation attempt and insisted that his remarks were meant to uphold the Constitution, not undermine the military.
Q: Does this involve Rep. Ruben Gallego?
A: No. Ruben Gallego—who is also a military veteran and represents Arizona in the U.S. House—was not named in the Pentagon investigation. The review focuses solely on Sen. Mark Kelly.
usanewstoday.net
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