The FBI is now investigating six Democrat lawmakers for what President Trump called “seditious behavior” after they encouraged military members to disobey orders in a controversial video.
Story Overview
- FBI seeks interviews with Sen. Mark Kelly and five House Democrats over military disobedience video.
- President Trump accused lawmakers of “seditious behavior” and called them “traitors.”
- Pentagon investigating Kelly for potential court-martial under military justice code.
- Defense Secretary Hegseth criticizes Kelly’s uniform display and military conduct.
FBI Launches Investigation Into Democrat Lawmakers
The FBI contacted House and Senate Sergeants at Arms requesting interviews with six Democrat lawmakers who appeared in a video encouraging military personnel to refuse following orders.
Sen. Mark Kelly leads the group, joined by Sen. Elissa Slotkin and House Representatives Jason Crow, Maggie Goodlander, Chris Deluzio, and Chrissy Houlahan. President Trump condemned their actions as treasonous, stating such behavior was historically “punishable by death.”
The lawmakers issued a defiant joint statement rejecting what they characterized as intimidation tactics. They accused President Trump of weaponizing the FBI against Congress members and vowed to continue their oversight duties.
“No amount of intimidation or harassment will ever stop us from doing our jobs and honoring our Constitution,” the statement declared. Their response demonstrates the escalating tension between the Trump administration and Democrat opposition in Congress.
FBI plans to interview Sen. Mark Kelly, other Democrats Trump accused of seditious behavior: reports https://t.co/hmC8PmEJJT
— CNBC (@CNBC) November 25, 2025
Pentagon Pursues Court-Martial Against Retired Navy Captain
The Pentagon announced Monday it was investigating “serious allegations of misconduct” against Kelly, who served as a retired Navy captain. Officials indicated Kelly could be recalled to active duty and face court-martial proceedings under the Uniform Code of Military Justice.
The UCMJ requires service members to obey lawful orders and regulations, creating potential legal jeopardy for Kelly’s public statements encouraging disobedience among current military personnel.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth publicly criticized Kelly’s military bearing and uniform presentation on social media. Hegseth pointed out Kelly’s medals were improperly displayed with incorrect order and reversed rows.
“When/if you are recalled to active duty, it’ll start with a uniform inspection,” Hegseth warned. The rebuke highlights the administration’s serious approach to military discipline and proper conduct standards.
Lawmakers Defend Constitutional Authority Despite Military Consequences
Kelly responded to the Pentagon investigation by dismissing intimidation attempts and reaffirming his congressional duties. He posted his military medals photograph while defending the video’s message that service members can refuse illegal orders.
The video, originally tweeted by Slotkin on November 18, directly addressed military and intelligence community members. Their message emphasized standing up for laws and constitutional principles above administrative directives.
This confrontation represents a broader constitutional crisis regarding congressional oversight versus executive authority. The Democrats claim their oath to defend the Constitution supersedes political pressure, while the Trump administration views their actions as undermining military discipline and good order.
The outcome could establish important precedents for future civil-military relations and the boundaries of congressional influence over armed forces personnel.
