1. United States
2. Iowa
3. Letter

I’m writing to insist that you publicly call for an end to the baseless attacks and “witch hunt” against Democrats who are reminding our servicemembers of their lawful rights and obligations under the Constitution. It is essential—not optional—that elected officials affirm that U.S. military personnel must never follow illegal orders. That is core military ethics. The attempt to investigate Senator Mark Kelly for “sedition” is especially offensive and absurd. Senator Kelly is a Navy combat pilot and astronaut who has lived the principles of military integrity his entire life. He reminded servicemembers of their rights—something every ethical leader should do. Meanwhile, it was Donald Trump who incited and orchestrated an attack on the U.S. Capitol. Turning the accusation of “sedition” against an honorable senator is a grotesque inversion of reality. No American should be attacked by the president—or by anyone in elected office—for stating the truth: that our troops have rights, that unlawful orders must be refused, and that the Constitution comes before any individual. I am demanding that you take a clear public stand: • Defend the rule of law and the ethical codes of the U.S. armed forces. • Publicly condemn the attacks on Senator Mark Kelly. • Denounce Trump’s misuse of the military and his attempts to intimidate those who uphold constitutional limits. • Reject political retaliation against anyone who affirms that troops must refuse unlawful orders. This moment demands courage. Silence is complicity. I expect your public response.