DOJ Interviews Democratic Lawmakers Over 'Illegal Orders' Video

Jan 15, 2026, 2:50 AM

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The Department of Justice (DOJ) has initiated interviews with at least four Democratic lawmakers involved in a controversial video that encourages military and intelligence personnel to disobey illegal orders. This investigation follows a request from the FBI, which first contacted the Senate and House sergeant-at-arms in November regarding the six lawmakers featured in the video.

The video, which has been labeled as "seditious" by President Donald Trump, features Senators Elissa Slotkin of Michigan and Mark Kelly of Arizona, along with Representatives Jason Crow of Colorado, Chrissy Houlahan of Pennsylvania, Maggie Goodlander of New Hampshire, and Chris Deluzio. The lawmakers argue that their message was a lawful reminder of the rights of service members, while the Trump administration views it as a dangerous challenge to presidential authority.

Slotkin confirmed that she and her colleagues have been contacted by the DOJ for formal interviews. She expressed her readiness to cooperate, stating, "To be clear, this is the president's playbook. Truth doesn't matter. Facts don't matter, and anyone who disagrees with him becomes an enemy." Slotkin also highlighted the intimidation tactics she has faced since the video's release, including bomb threats and harassment directed at her family.

Crow echoed Slotkin's sentiments, accusing Trump of using federal resources to intimidate political opponents. He stated, "I won't be intimidated and will keep fighting to uphold my oath to the Constitution and defend our country." Houlahan also criticized the investigation, asserting that it is an attempt to silence dissenting voices.

The DOJ's investigation raises questions about the legal implications of the lawmakers' actions. While it remains unclear what specific crimes, if any, are being investigated, Trump has suggested that the lawmakers' behavior could be classified as "seditious." This characterization has been met with strong pushback from the lawmakers, who maintain that they are simply advocating for adherence to the law.

The Pentagon has also announced a review of allegations against Senator Kelly, who is facing scrutiny related to his military service and the video. The investigation has sparked bipartisan concern, with some lawmakers from both parties defending the six Democrats. Senator Lisa Murkowski of Alaska criticized the accusations against them, stating that they are merely upholding the law.

As the investigation unfolds, the lawmakers remain resolute in their stance. They argue that the ability to refuse illegal orders is a fundamental principle of military service, one that is taught to recruits. Deluzio emphasized that this principle is ingrained in military training and questioned whether the administration would pursue legal action against all those who uphold it.

The DOJ's actions have been described by the lawmakers as a misuse of federal power for political purposes. Slotkin remarked that the investigation exemplifies the president's tendency to weaponize government agencies against perceived adversaries. As the situation develops, the implications for both the lawmakers and the broader political landscape remain to be seen.

The investigation into the "illegal orders" video highlights the ongoing tensions between the Trump administration and Democratic lawmakers, raising critical questions about free speech, political accountability, and the role of federal law enforcement in political disputes.

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