Pentagon Escalates Full Command Investigation into Sen. Mark Kelly Amid ‘Illegal Orders’ Video Controversy
Washington, D.C. – December 16, 2025
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The Pentagon has intensified its scrutiny of Arizona Democratic Senator Mark Kelly, elevating a preliminary inquiry to a full command investigation over allegations of “serious misconduct.” The action targets Kelly’s role in a controversial video where he and fellow lawmakers advised military personnel to disregard potentially unlawful directives.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced the upgrade on December 15, involving collaboration with the Department of Defense’s Office of General Counsel. The focus remains on possible breaches of the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ), which extends to military retirees such as Kelly, a former Navy combat pilot and NASA astronaut.
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The dispute originated from a November 18 video shared on social media by Sen. Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.). It featured Kelly alongside Reps. Jason Crow (D-Colo.), Chris Deluzio (D-Pa.), Maggie Goodlander (D-N.H.), and Chrissy Houlahan (D-Pa.) – all veterans or intelligence professionals. The group declared: “You can refuse illegal orders,” emphasizing adherence to the Constitution amid concerns over administration policies.
President Donald Trump branded the participants the “Seditious Six,” threatening severe consequences. Hegseth described the video as undermining military discipline.
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Kelly, the sole retiree subject to full UCMJ authority, defended his statement as a reminder of existing law. “Troops must refuse manifestly illegal orders,” he reiterated, citing longstanding military doctrine.
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Democratic allies decried the probe as political retaliation. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer accused the administration of weaponizing the military against critics. Legal experts largely agree the investigation lacks merit, viewing Kelly’s comments as protected speech and accurate legal advice.
npr.org
Pentagon investigates Sen. Mark Kelly over ‘illegal orders …
As the investigation unfolds, it spotlights tensions over civilian oversight of the military and free expression rights for veterans in public office. Outcomes could range from no action to rare punitive measures, though experts predict dismissal.
Kelly continues his Senate duties undeterred, supported by his record of service and bipartisan respect in Arizona.
