Secretary of War Pete Hegseth took a sharp stance against Sen. Mark Kelly, criticizing the senator’s public display of military service on social media. Hegseth accused Kelly of not only failing to display his uniform correctly but also undermining the discipline and order within the military ranks. The criticism comes in a political storm that has already drawn the attention of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), which is investigating several lawmakers, including Kelly, for their roles in circulating a video that encourages service members to defy ‘illegal orders.’
This video, which has become a focal point of the current controversy, was circulated by Kelly shortly after he returned from a deployment where his wife, Gabby, was critically injured. The video’s content, which urges the military to refuse unlawful commands, has sparked significant debate about the appropriate role of elected officials in the military’s operations and the potential for political influence over military conduct. The Department of War has confirmed it is conducting a formal review of these allegations, and has hinted at the possibility of recalling Kelly to active duty for further action under the Uniform Code of Military Justice.
Kelly, who is a decorated veteran with a rich military history, has responded to the accusations by emphasizing his commitment to the Constitution and his dedication to his country. He highlighted his service in the United States Navy, including combat missions and his role at NASA, where he had a crucial part in the recovery of the Columbia space shuttle crew. He has also pointed out that his military experience has been an integral part of his career, and he is not willing to be intimidated by any threats of legal or administrative consequences.
The situation has further complicated Kelly’s political standing, especially as the FBI is set to interview six lawmakers, which signals a broader scrutiny of their actions. The ongoing controversy has been framed not just as a legal matter, but also as a political issue, with implications for the balance of power between the government and the military.