Pete Hegseth’s online group recently posted that it is investigating Senator Mark Kelly, a retired Navy officer. The reason they gave is that Kelly appeared in a video reminding military service members that they are not required to obey illegal orders. This principle is a basic part of military law and American values. It comes from long-standing rules meant to prevent abuses of power, and it reflects the idea that every member of the military has a responsibility to follow the law, not just their commanders.
I have known Mark Kelly for many years. I watched him serve his country in ways most of us can hardly imagine. He became a Navy pilot, flew combat missions, trained as a test pilot, and later became a NASA astronaut who traveled into space multiple times. I was present when he married Gabby Giffords, and I saw firsthand the strength and dedication he brought to their life together.
After Gabby was shot in 2011 during a meeting with constituents in Arizona, I visited them. Mark showed remarkable steadiness and courage during one of the most painful moments of his life. He didn’t know if she would recover, but he was committed to standing by her and helping her rebuild her life. Over the years, he has kept that promise. Gabby continues to make progress, and the two of them support one another with determination and love.
When Mark decided to run for the Senate, he did it because he felt a deep responsibility to continue serving the country and to carry forward the work that Gabby had devoted herself to. Mark Kelly has always been motivated by a sense of duty and a belief in the promise of American democracy. His career reflects a commitment to the Constitution that goes well beyond words. It is something he has lived every day, through danger, loss, and service.
The online claim that Kelly may face “serious allegations of misconduct” and could even be recalled to active duty for punishment is not only unfounded but potentially dangerous. Accusations like this can be used to intimidate public officials, discourage honest debate, and blur the line between political disagreements and actual wrongdoing. It is especially troubling when such claims come from people connected to those in high office, because it can create the impression that political opponents are being threatened for doing their jobs.
Mark Kelly responded by reminding the public of his service. He explained that he swore an oath to the Constitution when he joined the Navy at 22, and that he upheld that oath through every chapter of his career — whether flying combat missions, launching into space, leading shuttle crews, or helping recover the remains of fellow astronauts after the Columbia tragedy. He described the risks he took and the responsibility he felt toward his country, emphasizing that these experiences shaped his lifelong commitment to American ideals.
He also said he had never heard of any investigation until he saw the post online, and that he noticed comments suggesting he should face severe punishment. He made it clear that if these statements were intended to frighten him or pressure Congress into silence, they would not succeed. He has given too much to the nation to step back from his responsibilities now. He believes strongly that members of Congress must be able to question and hold accountable any administration, regardless of who is in charge.
Mark Kelly’s response reflects the qualities that have defined his career: calm resolve, dedication, and a belief that public service means protecting the Constitution above all else. Throughout his life, he has shown steady leadership in both crisis and everyday work. His record speaks for itself.
