Pentagon Opens Rare Probe Into Senator, a Former Navy Captain

The U.S. Department of Defense has launched a formal command investigation into Senator Mark Kelly. The probe concerns a video he recorded urging military personnel to refuse illegal orders. Senator Kelly, a Democrat from Arizona and a retired U.S. Navy captain, made the video for a political group. In it, he advised troops to disobey commanders if given unlawful commands. The Pentagon considers this a potential violation of military rules that bar unlawful influence over service members. This type of investigation, known as an "Article 6-4 command inquiry," is a serious procedural step. It is used to gather facts on allegations of misconduct by senior officials. The findings could lead to further disciplinary action. Kelly, a former astronaut and combat pilot, has stated he was offering a reminder about service members' legal and ethical duties. The Pentagon has not detailed what potential consequences he may face.