URGENT UPDATE: Tensions escalate as Sen. Marsha Blackburn, R-Tenn., fiercely criticizes a newly released video by Democratic lawmakers urging U.S. service members to reject “illegal” orders. The clip, which has been viewed over 6.8 million times on X, has sparked outrage among Republicans, who see it as a direct attack on military integrity.
Blackburn appeared on The Faulkner Focus earlier today, condemning the message as “inconceivable.” She attributed the Democrats’ actions to what she termed “stage four Trump Derangement Syndrome,” asserting that elected officials should not encourage military personnel to defy lawful orders. “It is disturbing that they would say, ‘defy the orders if you do not like the orders,’” she stated.
The video, shared by Sen. Elissa Slotkin on October 24, 2023, features several lawmakers, including Sen. Mark Kelly, Rep. Chris Deluzio, Rep. Maggie Goodlander, Rep. Chrissy Houlahan, and Rep. Jason Crow. All highlight their military backgrounds while warning that threats to the Constitution are emerging from within the U.S. government. They call on military members to “refuse illegal orders” that violate their oaths.
Slotkin’s post on X emphasized the urgency of their message: “The American people need you to stand up for our laws and our Constitution. Don’t give up the ship,” she wrote. This bold statement has intensified the debate over the role of military personnel in upholding constitutional rights.
Blackburn’s response underscores a growing divide in political views regarding military allegiance and the rule of law. “Americans want to see respect for the rule of law,” she asserted, highlighting that many citizens find the video’s message out of touch with national values.
Adding to the controversy, Secretary of War Pete Hegseth echoed Blackburn’s sentiments in a tweet, labeling the situation as an example of “Stage 4 TDS.” This statement reflects the heightened emotions surrounding the ongoing political discourse.
The Democrats featured in the video have also introduced legislation aimed at curbing presidential authority over the National Guard’s domestic deployment. This move follows criticisms of former President Donald Trump‘s use of the Guard during civil unrest in cities like Washington and Chicago. Their proposals seek to limit the president’s ability to take military action against narco-terrorists without congressional consent, specifically targeting ongoing drug trafficking operations.
As this story develops, both parties remain deeply entrenched in their positions. The implications of such a divisive message could reverberate throughout military ranks and impact public perception of military loyalty.
Stay tuned for more updates on this unfolding situation as both sides prepare for potential further confrontations. The urgency of this issue underscores the necessity for clear communication and respect for military orders in these challenging times.