UPDATE: California Rep. Eric Swalwell stated that members of the military believe they can act as a vital “check” on President Donald Trump during a heated discussion on Don Lemon‘s show Monday. Swalwell’s comments come amid growing tensions surrounding a controversial video featuring six Democratic lawmakers encouraging service members to “refuse illegal orders” from Trump.
The Department of War has just announced it will launch a formal review into allegations against Arizona Sen. Mark Kelly, a retired Navy captain, for his involvement in the video. Swalwell criticized the Trump administration’s aggressive reaction, suggesting it indicates a deeper issue with Trump’s potential unlawful orders.
Swalwell emphasized, “While Congress is not a check on the president anymore, military members have told me, ‘We can be a check.’” He expressed hope that military personnel would uphold their oath to the Constitution despite any pressure from the White House.
The video, which has sparked outrage, features lawmakers including Sen. Elissa Slotkin and Rep. Chrissy Houlahan, who assert, “Our laws are clear. You can refuse illegal orders.” Swalwell noted that the backlash against Kelly suggests that the administration is concerned about service members ignoring unlawful directives.
He argued, “The only reason you’d go after Mark Kelly if he’s telling soldiers, ‘You don’t have to follow an unlawful order’—and they don’t—is if you intend to carry out unlawful orders.” Swalwell’s remarks underline a growing fear among Democratic lawmakers that the military might be pressured into unethical actions.
In a related development, Sen. Ruben Gallego also warned military members on CNN about potential repercussions for targeting Kelly. “Donald Trump is going to be gone in a couple of years,” Gallego stated. “If you’re part of the military that is going after sitting senators, there will be consequences, without a doubt.”
The ongoing situation highlights a critical moment in U.S. politics, raising questions about the military’s role and ethical obligations in the face of potential presidential overreach. As this story develops, it underscores the tension between civilian authority and military integrity.
Stay tuned for updates as the situation unfolds, with implications for both military conduct and the broader political landscape.