Swalwell Asserts Military Sees Itself as Check on Trump’s Orders

California gubernatorial candidate and Democratic Representative Eric Swalwell stated that some members of the U.S. military have expressed to him their belief that they serve as a vital “check” on President Donald Trump. This assertion comes amidst growing tensions surrounding a contentious video featuring several Democratic lawmakers, which has sparked significant scrutiny and debate.

During an appearance on Don Lemon’s CNN show on March 12, 2024, Swalwell defended six Democratic Congress members who appeared in the video encouraging military personnel to “refuse illegal orders” from Trump. This video has led to widespread backlash and prompted a formal review by the Department of War regarding whether Arizona Senator Mark Kelly, a retired Navy captain, violated military conduct standards by participating. Critics argue that the video undermines military authority.

Swalwell’s Defense and Military Perspectives

Swalwell characterized the administration’s investigation into Kelly as a politically motivated maneuver rather than a genuine concern. He stated, “What gives me hope, and I talk to service members all the time, is that they tell me that while Congress is not a check on the president anymore, and the judiciary at the Supreme Court is hardly a check, military members have told me, ‘We can be a check.’” This perspective suggests a strong commitment among service members to their oaths, even when faced with pressure from the commander-in-chief.

He elaborated on this commitment, asserting that military personnel have assured him they will not betray their constitutional oath. “They’re essentially saying, ‘We’re not going to betray our oath to the Constitution because this guy tells us to,’” Swalwell remarked. He emphasized that while military members do not operate as a separate governmental branch, their honor and integrity could play a crucial role in protecting democratic values.

Reactions and Broader Implications

Swalwell also echoed Lemon’s concerns that the current administration, along with some Republicans, is pressuring military personnel to disregard the Constitution. He stated, “To me, the only reason you’d go after Mark Kelly if he’s telling soldiers, ‘You don’t have to follow an unlawful order’ — and they don’t — is if you intend to carry out unlawful orders.” His comments reflect a broader alarm among Democrats regarding the political ramifications of the investigation.

In parallel, Arizona Democrat Senator Ruben Gallego issued a stark warning on CNN, suggesting there would be serious consequences for service members who pursue disciplinary action against Kelly. “Donald Trump is going to be gone in a couple of years,” Gallego stated. “And if you’re part of the military that is going after sitting senators, sitting members of Congress and part of the weaponization of government, there will be consequences, without a doubt.”

The controversy surrounding the video and the subsequent investigation continues to escalate as the Department of War conducts its review. Democrats are increasingly vocal about the potential political implications of the inquiry, suggesting that the outcome could have significant ramifications for military-civilian relations and the integrity of democratic institutions.