Topline
Sen. Mark Kelly, D-Ariz., is being investigated by the Pentagon over “serious allegations of misconduct,” the Department of Defense announced Monday, launching the inquiry after Kelly, a military veteran, appeared in a controversial video alongside other Democratic lawmakers urging military troops to refuse illegal orders.
Kelly pushed back against the investigation in a statement made Monday.
Photo by Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images
Key Facts
The investigation comes after Kelly, who served as a captain in the Navy and participated in Operation Desert Storm, appeared in a video that told military members they can and must refuse illegal orders, accusing the Trump administration of pitting the military against American citizens as it looks to deploy the National Guard to multiple cities.
The Pentagon said a “thorough review” has been launched into Kelly, noting the probe may recall the senator to active duty for a court-martial.
Kelly is the only one of the lawmakers who appeared in the video who retired from the military as an officer and therefore is still subject to military discipline under the jurisdiction of the Department of Defense, Secretary Pete Hegseth said on X.
The Pentagon cited a federal law that prohibits “actions intended to interfere with the loyalty, morale, or good order and discipline of the armed forces.”
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Crucial Quote
“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,” Kelly said in a statement in response to the Pentagon investigation. “I’ve given too much to this country to be silenced by bullies who care more about their own power than protecting the Constitution.”