Department of War Investigating Sen. Mark Kelly for ‘Seditious’ Video Urging Military to Disobey Trump
The Department of War has opened a formal investigation into Sen. Mark Kelly (D-AZ), a retired U.S. Navy captain, after his participation in a viral video urging military and intelligence personnel to refuse “illegal orders” under President Donald Trump’s administration. The Department said Kelly’s conduct could trigger court-martial proceedings if violations of military law are found.
In a statement Monday, the Department confirmed it is conducting a “thorough review” into what it described as “serious allegations of misconduct,” noting that possible outcomes include administrative discipline or recall to active duty for trial under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ).
OFFICIAL STATEMENT:
The Department of War has received serious allegations of misconduct against Captain Mark Kelly, USN (Ret.). In accordance with the Uniform Code of Military Justice, 10 U.S.C. § 688, and other applicable regulations, a thorough review of these allegations…
— Department of War ?? (@DeptofWar) November 24, 2025
“This matter will be handled in compliance with military law, ensuring due process and impartiality,” the statement read. “Further official comments will be limited, to preserve the integrity of the proceedings.”
The Department also reminded all military retirees that they remain subject to the UCMJ for specific offenses and are prohibited under federal law from engaging in conduct that could impair military morale, loyalty, or discipline.
“All servicemembers are reminded that they have a legal obligation under the UCMJ to obey lawful orders,” the Department added. “A servicemember’s personal philosophy does not justify or excuse the disobedience of an otherwise lawful order.”
Kelly appeared in the video alongside Sen. Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Reps. Chris Deluzio (D-PA), Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA), Maggie Goodlander (D-NH), and Jason Crow (D-CO), warning about domestic threats to the Constitution and urging the military to resist unlawful commands. None of the lawmakers cited specific illegal orders, but the video stirred immediate backlash.
President Trump condemned the remarks, calling them “sedition at the highest level,” and demanded that those involved be jailed.
“THE TRAITORS THAT TOLD THE MILITARY TO DISOBEY MY ORDERS SHOULD BE IN JAIL RIGHT NOW,” Trump posted on Truth Social. “IT WASN’T, AND NEVER WILL BE! IT WAS SEDITION AT THE HIGHEST LEVEL, AND SEDITION IS A MAJOR CRIME.”
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth followed with a scathing rebuke, branding the group the “Seditious Six” and accusing them of undermining national security.
The video made by the “Seditious Six” was despicable, reckless, and false. Encouraging our warriors to ignore the orders of their Commanders undermines every aspect of “good order and discipline.” Their foolish screed sows doubt and confusion — which only puts our warriors in… https://t.co/UvLXChZnmF
— Pete Hegseth (@PeteHegseth) November 24, 2025
“Encouraging our warriors to ignore the orders of their Commanders undermines every aspect of ‘good order and discipline,’” Hegseth said. “Kelly’s conduct brings discredit upon the armed forces and will be addressed appropriately.”
Hegseth confirmed that among the lawmakers involved, only Kelly remains subject to the UCMJ as a retired officer. Others either did not retire or are civilians.
Kelly responded on X with a measured statement defending his actions, while fellow Arizona Democrat Rep. Ruben Gallego reacted angrily, posting, “F*** you and your investigation.”
The probe now heads into uncharted territory. If pursued, it could mark one of the most high-profile applications of UCMJ authority against a sitting senator in modern history.