A group of six Democratic lawmakers, including Senators Elissa Slotkin and Mark Kelly, and Representatives Chris Deluzio, Maggie Goodlander, Chrissy Houlahan, and Jason Crow, have released a video directed at service members and intelligence officers. The video asserts that military personnel have the right to refuse illegal orders, stating, "Our laws are clear. You can refuse illegal orders." In response, President Donald Trump has labeled the lawmakers as 'traitors' and called for their arrest, describing their actions as 'seditious behavior.'

Following the video's release, the FBI has contacted the sergeants-at-arms of the House and Senate to arrange interviews with the lawmakers involved. The lawmakers have accused Trump of using the FBI to intimidate and harass them, emphasizing their commitment to their constitutional duties and asserting that intimidation will not deter them from their responsibilities.

The situation has escalated tensions between the Trump administration and the Democratic representatives. Slotkin indicated that the FBI's counter-terrorism division had informed them of an inquiry into their actions, which she characterized as a 'scare tactic' employed by Trump. She expressed concern over the president's tendency to leverage federal agencies against perceived adversaries, highlighting broader implications regarding the use of state power in political disputes.

The Pentagon has also announced a review of allegations of misconduct against Senator Kelly, a retired Navy captain, which could potentially lead to court-martial proceedings under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). The other lawmakers, being former military personnel but not retired, are not subject to the UCMJ.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth criticized the video, describing it as a politically motivated influence operation that could undermine trust within the military. He noted that the video did not specify any particular illegal order, which he argued created ambiguity rather than clarity. Hegseth cautioned against political interference that could disrupt the chain of command, stating that the actions of the lawmakers could sow doubt and hesitation among service members, potentially eroding cohesion within military ranks.

The FBI's inquiry raises significant First Amendment concerns, as well as issues related to the 'speech or debate' clause of the U.S. Constitution, which provides members of Congress with immunity from prosecution for actions taken within their legislative roles. This situation underscores the potential implications of federal power being used in political disputes, particularly in the context of military compliance and constitutional rights.