Swalwell Claims Military Can Act as a Check on Trump
California gubernatorial candidate and Democratic Congressman Eric Swalwell recently asserted that military officials have indicated he could serve as a “check” on President Donald Trump. In a discussion on CNN’s Don Lemon Show, Swalwell addressed the ongoing controversy over a video featuring six Democratic lawmakers advising military personnel to “reject illegal orders” issued by Trump.
In light of the video, the Department of the Army announced it is conducting a formal investigation into potential misconduct involving Arizona Senator and former Navy captain, Mark Kelly, who was part of the video.
Democrat Expresses Uncertainty About Trump’s Orders
Swalwell criticized the Trump administration for targeting Kelly, who urged military members to resist “unlawful orders.” He mentioned that some service members see themselves as serving a vital role in checking presidential authority. “I talk to military members regularly, and they tell me, ‘We can be a check.’ I think, perhaps not enough people realize this. Congress isn’t as much of a check as it should be, and the judiciary has become less effective in that role as well,” Swalwell noted.
General Critiques Democrats’ Video
Swalwell added that military personnel are committed to their constitutional oaths, asserting, “They are essentially saying, ‘We won’t betray our oath just because we’re told to by this guy.'” His remarks underline a sentiment that, although military service members aren’t a separate branch of government, their integrity can help protect democratic values.
Swalwell aligned with Lemon’s view that the administration and the Republican Party are pushing military members to “ignore the Constitution.” He questioned the motives behind going after Kelly, suggesting, “If you’re not planning to give illegal orders, why would you be bothered by someone telling soldiers they can refuse such orders?”
Kelly Responds to Criticism
In the backdrop of Swalwell’s statements, Senator Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.) also warned military officials during a CNN appearance that there would be repercussions for targeting Kelly. He stated, “Donald Trump will be gone within a few years. If you’re part of a military targeting a sitting senator, there will undoubtedly be consequences.” The implications of these conversations raise important questions about military ethics and the responsibilities of elected officials.
Fox News Digital has reached out to the Department of the Army for a response regarding the investigation involving Senator Kelly.
