Trump Accuses Democratic Lawmakers of Sedition Over Military Video

President Donald Trump has accused six Democratic lawmakers of "seditious behavior" after they released a video urging U.S. military personnel to refuse illegal orders. The lawmakers, all veterans of the armed services or intelligence community, include Senators Elissa Slotkin and Mark Kelly, and Representatives Jason Crow, Chris Deluzio, Maggie Goodlander, and Chrissy Houlahan.

In the 90-second video, the legislators remind service members of their duty to uphold the Constitution and refuse unlawful commands. They state, "Our laws are clear. You can refuse illegal orders."

Trump responded on social media, labeling their actions as "seditious behavior, punishable by DEATH," and called for their arrest and trial.

The lawmakers defended their message, emphasizing their commitment to the Constitution and the importance of lawful orders. They stated, "We are veterans and national security professionals who love this country and swore an oath to protect and defend the Constitution of the United States."

House Democratic leaders, including Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, condemned Trump's remarks as dangerous and unacceptable, and contacted Capitol Police to ensure the safety of the lawmakers involved.

Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson described the Democrats' video as "wildly inappropriate" and suggested that Trump was defining a legal term, not calling for violence.

Military legal experts note that service members are obligated to disobey unlawful orders but can be punished for disobeying lawful ones. The Uniform Code of Military Justice mandates obedience to lawful orders and penalizes compliance with illegal ones.