In a significant move, the US Department of Defense has formally rebuked Democratic Senator Mark Kelly and is considering a reduction of his military retirement rank. The action stems from a video released by the senator and five other lawmakers that urged American military and intelligence personnel to reject unlawful commands.
Defence Secretary's Stern Rebuke
Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth announced the disciplinary steps on Monday. He stated that the Pentagon has issued a formal Letter of Censure to Senator Kelly, who is a retired US Navy captain. The letter details what Hegseth termed as the "totality" of Kelly's reckless misconduct.
In a post on social media platform X, Hegseth condemned the video. He called it a "reckless and seditious" act that was clearly designed to undermine good order and discipline within the US armed forces. The video, released in November, featured six Democratic members of Congress, all of whom have backgrounds in military or intelligence services.
Lawmakers' Message and Senator's Defence
The controversial video contained a strong political message. The lawmakers claimed that the administration of former President Donald Trump was intentionally setting uniformed military and intelligence professionals against American citizens. They warned that threats to the US Constitution were emerging not just from overseas but from within the country itself. Their central advice was clear: "You can refuse illegal orders."
While the video did not point to specific orders, it was released amid criticism of the Trump administration's use of military force. Senator Kelly, representing Arizona, fired back at Hegseth's actions. On X, he accused the Defence Secretary of trying to intimidate every retired service member. Kelly stated that the message was that if any veteran says something disliked by Hegseth or Donald Trump, they will face similar retaliation. He labelled the move as "outrageous and wrong."
Context of the Controversial Orders
The lawmakers' video indirectly referenced two major areas of contention. Domestically, former President Trump had frequently ordered the deployment of the National Guard to various US cities. These moves often happened against the wishes of local officials, leading to legal battles. The administration justified the deployments as necessary to control sporadic and sometimes violent protests.
Internationally, the Trump administration had authorised strikes on vessels suspected of drug smuggling in the Caribbean Sea and eastern Pacific Ocean. These actions, which began in early September, resulted in over 100 fatalities. Legal experts and human rights groups have criticised these strikes, suggesting they amount to extrajudicial killings.
Potential Consequences and Broader Implications
The Pentagon has initiated proceedings that could lead to a demotion in Senator Kelly's retired rank. Such a step is a rare and severe administrative punishment for a former officer and now-sitting senator. This case highlights the deepening tensions between certain segments of the US Congress and the military establishment over issues of lawful command and political speech.
The confrontation sets a notable precedent regarding the limits of political commentary by retired military personnel who hold public office. It raises questions about the separation of the military from partisan politics and the right of elected officials, who are also veterans, to criticise government policy.
