President Donald Trump sharply criticized six Democratic lawmakers who released a video urging U.S. service members to uphold the Constitution and refuse illegal orders. The video, featuring veterans from Congress including Sen. Elissa Slotkin and Sen. Mark Kelly, called on troops to resist unlawful commands amid tensions over the Trump administration’s efforts to deploy National Guard troops to cities. The lawmakers warned that the administration was pitting the military against American citizens and ended with the historic naval phrase, “Don’t give up the ship.”

In response, Trump labeled the lawmakers’ actions as “seditious behavior punishable by death” and suggested they should be arrested and tried, amplifying extreme comments from supporters. The White House press secretary echoed concerns about the Democrats’ message, emphasizing that urging troops not to follow lawful orders is dangerous and that those responsible should be held accountable. The controversy highlights the complex legal and ethical challenges military personnel face when determining the legality of orders under the Uniform Code of Military Justice.