1. United States
2. Wash.
3. Letter

I’m writing with a simple request that feels both urgent and foundational: please continue to publicly affirm that U.S. service members must refuse illegal orders. This isn’t partisan, and it isn’t new. It’s the bedrock of military discipline and American law. Last week, several veterans now serving in Congress released a short video reminding service members of their oath and of the long-standing legal requirement to reject unlawful orders. Senator Mark Kelly—retired Navy captain, combat veteran, and former astronaut—was among them. Everything he said echoes what’s written plainly in the Uniform Code of Military Justice and the Army Field Manual: following illegal orders is not a defense, and troops are obligated to refuse them. Despite this, the Pentagon announced it is “investigating” Sen. Kelly, citing recall authority for retired service members. It is extraordinary for the Department of Defense to target a sitting senator for accurately restating military law. Scholars from across the political spectrum have already warned how dangerous this is for separation of powers and for the independence of Congress. And then the situation escalated. The President accused the lawmakers of “sedition” and amplified posts calling for their execution. Congressional leaders have already reached out to law enforcement to ensure members’ safety. Whatever our politics, this is not a path our country should tolerate. Sen. Kelly has remained steady, reaffirming his duty and refusing to be intimidated. His message was not political—it was a reminder of the rule of law. That is why it’s so important for more members of Congress to speak up now. When only a few defend this basic principle, they become isolated targets. When members from both parties affirm it together, it becomes what it truly is: a shared commitment to lawful military conduct and constitutional governance. In every future crisis—and we all know there will be more—clarity from civilian leadership will matter. Service members need to hear one unified message: lawful orders must be followed, and unlawful ones must be refused. Supporting them in that duty is not partisan. It’s patriotic. Thank you for continuing to stand firm and speak clearly on this essential principle.