Colorado Congressman Jason Crow is standing firm on a controversial video he helped create last November, urging U.S. troops to refuse unlawful orders. The move sparked death threats against him and his family, and led to the recent censure of his colleague, Senator Mark Kelly, by the Defense Secretary.
Video Sparks National Debate
The video featured Crow and other Democratic veterans, including Arizona Senator Mark Kelly, speaking directly to service members. They reminded troops of their duty to follow only legal commands under military law.
This came amid concerns over potential orders from the incoming Trump administration. Crow, a former Army Ranger with combat experience in Iraq and Afghanistan, said the goal was to support troops and uphold the Constitution.
Public reaction split along party lines. Some praised it as a needed reminder, while others called it an attack on military discipline.
- Key figures in the video: Jason Crow, Mark Kelly, and other congressional Democrats with military backgrounds.
- Release date: November 2025.
- Main message: Service members must reject unlawful orders to protect democracy.
Crow Reports Death Threats
After the video went viral, Crow received graphic death threats targeting him and his family. He shared examples during interviews, including messages calling him a traitor.
Despite the danger, Crow refuses to back down. He told reporters that such threats show the high stakes but strengthen his resolve.
Security measures increased around Crow’s office and home in Colorado. Local law enforcement is investigating the threats, which surged after President Trump labeled the video seditious on social media.
Crow linked the backlash to broader political tensions, noting similar incidents during his role in the January 6 Capitol attack investigations.
Trump and Republicans Push Back
President Trump quickly condemned the video, posting that it amounted to sedition and was punishable by death. This escalated the controversy nationwide.
Republican leaders echoed Trump, accusing the Democrats of undermining the chain of command. They argued the video encouraged insubordination without evidence of actual illegal orders.
In response, Crow defended the action as a standard reminder of military ethics. He pointed out that troops receive regular training on this topic.
| Key Reactions | Source | Details |
|---|---|---|
| President Trump | Social Media | Called participants traitors and demanded arrests. |
| GOP Officials | Statements | Claimed video weakens military morale. |
| Military Experts | Interviews | Noted that refusing unlawful orders is part of Uniform Code of Military Justice. |
| Public Polls | Recent Surveys | 55% support the video’s message, per a 2026 poll by Pew Research. |
Colleague Kelly Faces Censure
This week, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth censured Senator Mark Kelly for his role in the video. The action reduces Kelly’s military rank and retirement benefits.
Kelly, a retired Navy captain and astronaut, said he stands by the message. He called the censure an attempt to silence dissent.
Crow supported Kelly, describing him as an American hero. He argued the move sets a dangerous precedent for free speech among veterans in Congress.
The censure drew criticism from Democrats, who see it as political retaliation. Legal experts debate if it violates separation of powers.
Both men served in the military and now use that experience in their political roles. Kelly’s background includes space missions, while Crow led troops in combat.
The incident highlights ongoing divides over military loyalty in a polarized era.
Positive Feedback Amid Criticism
Crow reported overwhelming positive responses from constituents and service members. Many thanked him for clarifying their rights and duties.
Veterans groups have mixed views. Some support the video as empowering, while others worry it sows confusion in the ranks.
In Colorado, Crow’s district shows strong backing. A local poll from January 2026 found 62% of voters approve of his stance.
He plans to continue advocating for military ethics through congressional hearings.
What’s Next for Crow and the Military
Experts predict more scrutiny on military-civilian relations under the current administration. Crow may face further challenges, including potential investigations.
He urged unity, saying the focus should be on supporting troops, not division.
As this story develops, it raises questions about free speech, military oaths, and political influence. Readers, share your thoughts in the comments and spread this article to keep the conversation going.
