President Trump accused six Democratic lawmakers of sedition, 'punishable by DEATH,' after they released a video urging U.S. military members to uphold the Constitution and defy 'illegal orders.' The incident sparked a heated debate over military duty, political rhetoric, and the legality of disobeying orders.
Six Democratic lawmakers, all veterans, released a video encouraging U.S. service members to uphold the Constitution and refuse 'illegal orders,' prompting a furious response from President Donald Trump. Trump publicly accused them of 'seditious behavior, punishable by DEATH,' reposting messages calling for their arrest and even execution. The video, featuring Senators Elissa Slotkin and Mark Kelly, and Representatives Jason Crow, Chris Deluzio, Maggie Goodlander, and Chrissy Houlahan, reminded troops of their duty amidst 'enormous stress and pressure.' While the lawmakers did not specify particular orders, its release coincided with the Trump administration's efforts to deploy National Guard troops in U.S. cities. The article clarifies that U.S. military doctrine obligates troops to reject unlawful orders, though determining legality can be complex for rank-and-file members, and refusing lawful orders is also punishable. The White House later downplayed Trump's death penalty comment, stating he was merely 'defining a crime.' However, Democratic leaders like Chuck Schumer warned of Trump 'lighting a match,' while Trump allies like Stephen Miller labeled the video 'insurrection.' The 'Steady State' network of security experts supported the lawmakers' message as established doctrine, while a Pentagon spokesperson challenged the premise of illegal orders being issued. The controversy highlights a significant flashpoint in political rhetoric regarding military loyalty and constitutional obligations.
