1. United States
2. Calif.
3. Letter

I am writing to express my deep concern over recent statements made by former President Donald Trump on his Truth Social platform. His suggestion that Democratic lawmakers should face execution for urging service members and intelligence officials to disobey illegal orders is not only alarming but a direct threat to our democratic principles. As your constituent, I strongly urge you to publicly condemn this dangerous rhetoric and reaffirm the importance of following only lawful orders within our military and intelligence communities. The six Democratic lawmakers who spoke out - Senators Elissa Slotkin and Mark Kelly, and Representatives Jason Crow, Maggie Goodlander, Chris Deluzio, and Chrissy Houlahan - were acting responsibly by reminding those in service of their duty to the Constitution, not to any individual. It is crucial to recognize that the principle of refusing illegal orders is fundamental to maintaining the rule of law and preventing abuses of power. This is not a partisan issue but a cornerstone of our democracy. The Nuremberg trials following World War II established that "following orders" is not a defense for committing war crimes or other illegal acts. I am particularly troubled by the response from the White House, where press secretary Karoline Leavitt attempted to deflect by calling the Democrats' message "dangerous and potentially illegal." This mischaracterization only serves to muddy the waters on a clear ethical and legal principle. Furthermore, the indication from Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche that the Justice Department would examine the lawmakers' actions in creating the video is concerning. This could be perceived as an attempt to intimidate those who speak out in defense of our constitutional principles. I ask that you take immediate action to: 1. Issue a clear statement condemning threats of violence against elected officials. 2. Reaffirm the legal and moral obligation of service members and intelligence officials to refuse illegal orders. 3. Support measures to protect lawmakers who face threats for upholding their oath to the Constitution. Our democracy depends on elected officials like you standing firm against rhetoric that incites violence and undermines the rule of law. The safety of our lawmakers and the integrity of our institutions are at stake. I look forward to hearing your response on this critical issue.