Senator Mark Kelly Condemns Trump Administration's 'Outrageous Abuse of Power'
Senator Mark Kelly has launched a scathing rebuke against the Trump administration, labelling its reported efforts to pursue criminal charges against him and other Democratic lawmakers as an "outrageous abuse of power." This follows a grand jury in Washington reportedly refusing to indict the politicians in connection with a video that encouraged U.S. military members to resist "illegal orders."
Grand Jury Rejects Indictment Amid Political Tensions
According to reports, the Department of Justice, at the urging of U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro, opened an investigation into a video featuring Kelly, Michigan Senator Elissa Slotkin, and four other Democratic lawmakers. The video urged service members to adhere to established military protocols and reject orders they believe to be unlawful. However, a grand jury in Washington declined to sign off on any charges, marking a significant setback for prosecutors.
"This is an outrageous abuse of power by Donald Trump and his lackies," Kelly, a former NASA astronaut and U.S. naval officer, wrote on social media platform X. "It wasn't enough for Pete Hegseth to censure me and threaten to demote me, now it appears they tried to have me charged with a crime—all because of something I said that they didn't like. That's not the way things work in America."
Lawmakers with Military Backgrounds Targeted
The investigation reportedly targeted six Democratic lawmakers, all of whom have prior military or intelligence agency service. Alongside Kelly and Slotkin, the group included Representatives Jason Crow, Maggie Goodlander, Chrissy Houlahan, and Chris Deluzio. Prosecutors allegedly sought to convince the grand jury that these individuals violated a law prohibiting interference with "the loyalty, morale or discipline of the U.S. armed forces," as reported by The New York Times.
Kelly emphasised the broader implications, stating, "Donald Trump wants every American to be too scared to speak out against him. The most patriotic thing any of us can do is not back down." His comments underscore the deepening political divisions and concerns over the weaponisation of justice systems.
Widespread Criticism from Democratic Figures
Other lawmakers involved echoed Kelly's sentiments, expressing relief and condemnation. Senator Elissa Slotkin remarked, "Today, it was a grand jury of anonymous American citizens who upheld the rule of law and determined this case should not proceed. Hopefully, this ends this politicized investigation for good." She added that the episode represented "another sad day for our country," criticising President Trump for weaponising the justice system against perceived enemies.
Representative Jason Crow, a former Army Ranger, stated, "Donald Trump's DOJ just tried—and failed—to indict me in front of a grand jury. We will continue to fight back against their rising tyranny. Don't Give Up the Ship." California Senator Adam Schiff, though not named in the investigation, commented, "That the DOJ would even contemplate such an action demonstrates what a repressive regime is now running this country."
Unclear Legal Details and Ongoing Fallout
It remains unclear whether prosecutors sought indictments against all six lawmakers or what specific charges were attempted. This incident is part of a series of rebukes by citizens in Washington against prosecutors, as noted by a source to The Associated Press. The Independent has reached out to the DOJ and Pirro's office for comment, but responses are pending.
The controversy highlights escalating tensions between the Trump administration and Democratic officials, with accusations of political targeting and erosion of democratic norms. As the fallout continues, the focus shifts to how such investigations might impact future political discourse and the integrity of U.S. institutions.
