The controversial video featuring Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ) and five other Democratic lawmakers has created an unusual divide among Republicans, with some criticizing Kelly while others defend him.
Six Democratic lawmakers, all with military or intelligence backgrounds, appeared in a video reminding service members they can refuse unlawful orders under military law. Kelly was among them.
The video has triggered a Pentagon investigation and sparked disagreements between both parties.
15 Arizona Republican state lawmakers signed a letter condemning Kelly's participation.
The letter accused the video of using service members as "political props," implying the President might issue illegal orders, and potentially encouraging insubordination in the military. They argued it came "disturbingly close" to violating federal sedition laws.
Additionally, it referenced President Donald Trump's description of such conduct as "seditious behavior, punishable by death" and demanded Kelly publicly retract his participation and clarify his intent.
"Those of us who have served in uniform understand the stakes," the letter stated.
Other Republicans Defend
While Arizona Republicans criticized Kelly, several prominent Republican lawmakers from other states took the opposite position.
Senator John Curtis (R-UT) publicly expressed respect for Kelly, writing on X: "I know him as someone whose career has been defined by service. His record as a combat naval aviator and NASA astronaut reflects his example of the discipline and dedication that are important for success."
Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) criticized the investigation itself. She called accusations of treason and sedition "reckless and flat-out wrong," adding that "the Department of Defense and FBI surely have more important priorities than this frivolous investigation."
Representative Don Bacon (R-NE) called the Democratic video "unnecessary and foolish" but also criticized the response as "crazy."
The controversy highlights that both sides agree with the Uniform Code of Military Justice, but disagree on whether publicly stating it in a political video helps or harms military discipline.
Furthermore, continuous arguments stem from how military service, political messaging, and questions of loyalty can create unexpected alliances and divisions, even within the same party.
