BREAKING: California gubernatorial candidate and Democratic Rep. Eric Swalwell has made explosive claims that members of the U.S. military see themselves as a vital “check” on President Donald Trump. This declaration comes amid rising tensions following a controversial video featuring several Democratic lawmakers encouraging service members to “refuse illegal orders” from the President.
In an urgent appearance on CNN’s Don Lemon show on Monday, Swalwell defended six Democratic members of Congress, including Senator Mark Kelly, who is now facing scrutiny from the Department of War for his participation in the video. The investigation raises serious questions about military conduct and has ignited widespread backlash.
Swalwell argues that the Trump administration’s response to the video indicates a political maneuver rather than genuine concern for military integrity. He stated, “What gives me hope… military members have told me, ‘We can be a check.’” He emphasized that these service members are committed to their oaths and will not “betray” the Constitution, even under pressure from the commander-in-chief.
“They’re essentially saying, ‘We’re not going to betray our oath to the Constitution because this guy tells us to,’” Swalwell added, highlighting the deep commitment service members have to their duties. His comments resonate amid escalating political tensions, as several Democrats voice alarm over the implications of the military’s role in partisan conflicts.
Senator Ruben Gallego, another Arizona Democrat, issued a stark warning during his own CNN appearance. He cautioned that there would be “consequences” for service members involved in disciplinary actions against Kelly, asserting, “Donald Trump is going to be gone in a couple of years. And if you’re part of the military that is going after sitting senators… there will be consequences, without a doubt.”
The fallout from this situation continues to grow as the Department of War conducts its review, raising concerns about the intersection of military conduct and partisan politics. Swalwell’s remarks and Gallego’s warnings underscore the heightened stakes for both lawmakers and military personnel. The conversations reflect a broader anxiety over the potential for unlawful orders from the administration and the military’s response.
This developing story is set against a backdrop of increasing scrutiny of the Trump administration’s actions and the implications for military integrity. As the Department of War moves forward with its investigation, observers are closely monitoring how this situation will unfold. The ramifications for both political figures and service members alike could reshape the narrative of military involvement in political affairs.
Stay tuned for further updates on this urgent situation as it evolves. The conversations ignited by Swalwell’s claims have the potential to impact the relationship between the military and political leadership in the United States significantly.
