Secretary of War Pete Hegseth has publicly criticized Sen. Mark Kelly for his uniform display, asserting that it is out of order and the rows are reversed. This comes amidst a formal investigation into Kelly’s alleged misconduct, following a viral video he posted encouraging military members to refuse illegal orders. The Department of War has initiated a review of these allegations, and the FBI is reportedly considering interviews with six lawmakers, including Kelly, as part of this inquiry. Hegseth’s comments were directed at a post Kelly made on X, where he shared an image of his uniform and recounted his military service, including deployments and missions during the Gulf War. The Pentagon has indicated it may call Kelly back to, active duty for potential court-martial proceedings or other administrative actions under the Uniform Code of Military Justice. Kelly’s office has yet to respond to inquiries about the matter, and he himself has stated that any attempt to intimidate lawmakers would be ineffective, given his service to the country.
Kelly’s post on X highlighted his military background, including his service in the United States Navy, his deployments on the USS Midway, and his participation in the Gulf War. He also mentioned his work at NASA, where he commanded the space shuttle and was part of the recovery mission following the Columbia disaster. His wife, Gabby, was shot in the head while serving her constituents, which contributed to his decision to retire from active duty. In a response to Hegseth’s criticisms, Kelly emphasized that he has given too much to the country to be silenced by those who prioritize power over protecting the Constitution. However, his office has not yet provided an official statement on the matter, leaving the situation open to further developments.
The Department of War’s review of Kelly’s conduct is part of a broader investigation into allegations of misconduct among lawmakers. The FBI’s involvement suggests that the situation may have legal implications, potentially leading to formal charges against those involved. The Pentagon’s statement that the matter will be handled in compliance with military law underscores the seriousness of the situation. While no financial effects are expected from this controversy, the political ramifications could be significant, particularly as the conflict continues to gain attention in the media and among the public. Overall, the incident highlights the tensions between military conduct, civilian oversight, and the role of lawmakers in holding the administration accountable.