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Trump Declares Democrats’ Video ‘Seditious’
President Donald Trump publicly condemned a video released by six Democratic lawmakers urging U.S. military personnel to refuse what they described as “illegal orders.” Trump labelled the lawmakers’ message “seditious behaviour, punishable by death” and called them traitors. He reposted inflammatory social media commentary suggesting execution. The lawmakers involved include Senators Elissa Slotkin and Mark Kelly, as well as Representatives Jason Crow, Chrissy Houlahan, Maggie Goodlander and Chris Deluzio.
Video Urges Troops to Uphold Constitution
In the video message, the lawmakers—many of whom are former service members or intelligence officials—addressed military and intelligence personnel directly, reminding them of their oath to the Constitution and their duty to refuse orders they believe to be unlawful. They did not cite a specific scenario or order, but emphasised the legal right and responsibility to act.
Legal And Political Stakes
Under U.S. military law, orders determined to be illegal must not be followed, but many service members face uncertainty in making that call. Trump’s invocation of “punishable by death” relates to historical military law, where under certain war-time offences execution may apply, but it is not applicable to the situation cited. His remarks drew sharp criticism from Democratic leaders who called his rhetoric dangerous and reckless, raising concerns about threats to democratic norms and the military-civil relationship.
Broader Implications
The clash highlights growing tension between executive rhetoric, civilian-military duty and constitutional obligations. Critics argue that Trump’s language could stoke political violence and undermine the independence of the armed services. Supporters view the lawmakers’ video as inappropriate, interfering with military command structure. The episode underscores how debates over order, obedience and legality have entered mainstream political conflict.
