On November 24, the US Department of Defense announced the launch of an investigation into American astronaut, Democratic senator from Arizona, and retired Navy captain Mark Kelly, who, according to the department, faces “serious allegations of misconduct.”
The Pentagon has not ruled out reinstating Kelly to active duty in order to hold him accountable, but it has not disclosed the nature of the potential charges.
The statement was released after Kelly and five other Democrats in Congress recorded a video on November 18 urging members of the military and intelligence community not to follow unlawful orders. According to Reuters, the appeal was published amid concerns that the United States could be preparing for a war with Venezuela. President Donald Trump called the message an incitement to rebellion and said such actions are punishable by death.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said that “Kelly’s conduct discredits the armed forces and will be addressed accordingly.” He described the video recorded by the “Rebel Six” as “disgusting, reckless and dishonest.” He argues that the authors of the appeal “are sowing doubt and confusion, putting our service members at risk.”
Mark Kelly said he had seen Hegseth’s remarks and “the president’s posts saying I should be arrested, hanged and executed.” He stressed: “If this is meant to intimidate me and other members of Congress, to stop us from doing our jobs and holding this administration accountable, it will not work. I have given too much to this country to be silenced by bullies who care more about their own power than about defending the Constitution.”