Video Encourages Military to Defy Orders, Sparks Republican Outrage

A video released by Democratic lawmakers calls on military personnel to defy “unlawful” orders, and Republicans are expressing strong disapproval. Sen. Marsha Blackburn criticized the message as “unthinkable,” suggesting it arises from what she termed a deep-seated animosity towards former President Donald Trump.

Speaking on “The Faulkner Focus,” Blackburn, a Republican from Tennessee, stated, “They’re in Stage 4 Trump Derangement Syndrome.” She found it hard to believe that any elected official would suggest that those in uniform, who have pledged to protect the Constitution, should disobey orders necessary for their duties.

The video, shared by Sen. Elissa Slotkin, has had over 6.8 million views on social media. It features other lawmakers with military backgrounds, including Sen. Mark Kelly and Rep. Chrissy Houlahan, who all voiced concerns about constitutional threats from within. Their message urges service members to “refuse illegal orders” that go against constitutional principles.

Slotkin appealed directly to military and intelligence personnel, urging them to uphold their commitment to the Constitution and not abandon their responsibilities.

In her response, Blackburn asserted that Americans value the rule of law and implied that the Democrats promoting this video do not share that respect. “It is troubling,” she said, “that they suggest, ‘If you don’t like the orders, follow them.'” Secretary of the Army Pete Hegseth echoed her sentiments with the phrase “Stage 4 TDS” on social media.

Several lawmakers in the clip have recently proposed legislation aimed at restricting the president’s powers regarding the National Guard’s domestic deployment, especially following President Trump’s use of the Guard in various cities. The proposals would also limit presidential actions against narco-terrorism without congressional approval, as the White House works to target organizations involved in drug trafficking.