Thu Nov 20 00:00:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary and a rewritten news article based on the provided text:
Summary:
Six Democratic lawmakers, all with military or intelligence backgrounds, released a video cautioning members of the armed forces and intelligence community about their obligation to refuse illegal orders. The video doesn’t focus on a specific order but expresses concern about potential threats to the Constitution from within the U.S., and the possibility of the Trump administration using the military against American citizens. The initiative was led by Senator Elissa Slotkin, who has previously voiced concerns about President Trump deploying troops to quell protests. The Trump administration sharply criticized the effort.
News Article:
Democrats Issue Warning to Military: “You Must Refuse Illegal Orders”
Washington D.C. – In a rare move, six Democratic lawmakers with backgrounds in the military and intelligence community have issued a direct warning to current service members: they have a legal and moral obligation to refuse illegal orders. The message, delivered in a short online video released on Tuesday, comes amidst growing concerns about potential threats to the Constitution from within the United States.
The initiative was spearheaded by Senator Elissa Slotkin of Michigan, a former CIA analyst with multiple tours in Iraq. She was joined by Senator Mark Kelly of Arizona, a Navy veteran and former astronaut, Representative Chris Deluzio of Pennsylvania, also a Navy veteran, and other members. The lawmakers took turns reading a statement emphasizing the importance of adhering to the law, even under pressure.
“Our laws are clear,” Senator Kelly stated in the video. “You can refuse illegal orders.”
Representative Deluzio added, “You must refuse illegal orders.”
While the video did not reference a specific order, the lawmakers expressed concern that the current administration, then the Trump administration, was “pitting our uniform military and intelligence community against American citizens.”
The message has been interpreted as a rebuke of President Trump’s past rhetoric and actions, particularly the suggestion of deploying active-duty troops to quell domestic protests. Slotkin has been particularly vocal on the matter, raising concerns during congressional hearings.
The Trump administration responded sharply, labeling the video as “unnecessary” and “divisive.” The administration accused the lawmakers of undermining the chain of command and sowing distrust within the military.
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