Democratic Congress Members Release Video on Military Orders

On November 18, a group of six Democratic Congress members with military or intelligence backgrounds—Senators Elissa Slotkin and Mark Kelly, along with Representatives Jason Crow, Chris Deluzio, Maggie Goodlander, and Chrissy Hoolahan—shared a brief online video titled “Don’t give up on the ship.” This video called on U.S. military and intelligence personnel to resist “unlawful orders” and emphasized that their allegiance lies with the Constitution, rather than specific leaders.

The video articulated that threats to the Constitution arise not only from external forces but also from within the country. It specifically targeted the Trump administration, suggesting it fostered division between military personnel and civilians without presenting concrete evidence of any unlawful orders being issued.

Interestingly, in subsequent interviews, both Crow and Slotkin admitted there were no illegal orders from President Trump or his administration. Crow stated on November 20 that they were not urging the public to disobey any illegal commands, a sentiment echoed by Slotkin, who characterized any claims of President Trump issuing illegal orders as baseless.

This messaging led to significant backlash. President Trump labeled the actions a “seditionary act by a traitor,” even suggesting such acts could merit the death penalty—a notion that aligns with current U.S. federal law regarding sedition. Despite such serious claims, it seems that the Democrats involved have positioned themselves as victims, drawing attention to the controversy they initiated.

In response to Trump’s comments on “Truth Social,” several of the video participants contacted Capitol Police for increased security. Critics labeled this maneuver as an exaggerated display of victimhood, invoking the idea that Democrats thrive on narratives of oppression.

Chuck Schumer, the Senate Minority Leader, accused Trump of inciting political violence, asserting that no president has ever sank lower than Trump. Meanwhile, commentators pointed out the irony in Congress members implying illegal military actions while failing to directly accuse Trump of wrongdoing.

As tensions rise, the back-and-forth continues, with noted instances of Democrats receiving extra protective measures while critics mock their attempts to position themselves as beleaguered figures in a polarized political landscape.