Senator’s Remarks Spark Controversy
Sen. Mark Kelly is facing backlash from fellow Arizonans after Army Secretary Pete Hegseth announced an investigation into “allegations of serious misconduct.” This announcement follows the release of a video featuring Kelly and five other Democrats urging military personnel to “reject illegal orders.”
During an appearance on CNN’s “The Arena with Casey Hunt,” Sen. Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), a former Marine, criticized Hegseth directly, saying, “You’ll never be even half as good as Sen. Kerry.” He added, “Sir, you’re a coward! Following this presidential order just underscores that. I look forward to the day you’re no longer in charge.”
President Trump had previously called for the arrest of Kelly and the other lawmakers on November 20. He labeled their video as showcasing “the highest level of seditious conduct,” including Sen. Elissa Slotkin from Michigan and Reps. Chris Deluzio, Chrissy Hoolahan, Maggie Goodlander, and Jason Crow.
Hegseth characterized the lawmakers as “six instigators,” deeming the video “despicable, reckless and false.” He claimed Kelly’s actions have tarnished the military’s reputation and emphasized that, as a retired naval officer, Kelly is the only one among the six subject to discipline.
After the investigation announcement, Hegseth shared a video on social media where he insulted Kelly, further escalating the situation.
In response, Gallego defended Kelly, stating he was merely fulfilling his duty by reminding service members of their rights. “Secretary Hegseth, you cannot intimidate us. We have the right to uphold the Constitution and inform others of their rights regarding illegal orders,” he asserted.
Appearing on “The Rachel Maddow Show,” Kelly maintained that his message was straightforward and not controversial. He remarked, “I said military personnel should follow the law, and Donald Trump has essentially called for my execution. It says more about him than it does about me. He doesn’t want accountability. But I won’t be silenced or intimidated.”
While the six Democratic senators did not specify any orders from the White House or Pentagon they deemed immoral, Slotkin and Crow have proposed legislation aimed at restricting Trump’s powers to deploy the National Guard domestically or engage suspected drug traffickers at sea.
