WASHINGTON: President Donald Trump on Thursday condemned six Democratic lawmakers who urged US military personnel to refuse illegal orders, calling them “traitors who could face execution.” The remarks were made in a series of posts on Truth Social, which also described their actions as “seditious behaviour, punishable by death.”
Read More: Lawmakers fire back at US Congress’ push for Imran’s release
The lawmakers, including Senators Elissa Slotkin and Mark Kelly, and Representatives Jason Crow, Maggie Goodlander, Chris Deluzio, and Chrissy Houlahan, had released a video addressing military and intelligence personnel, urging them to uphold the law and constitution by refusing unlawful directives. Trump criticized their message as dangerous and unacceptable, suggesting extreme penalties.
— Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) November 20, 2025
House leaders expressed concern that the president’s statements could incite violence, contacting Capitol Police to ensure the lawmakers’ safety. White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt clarified that Trump does not intend to execute members of Congress but reinforced criticism of the Democrats for encouraging military personnel to challenge orders.
A joint statement from myself @SenMarkKelly, @RepJasonCrow, @RepDeluzio, @RepGoodlander and @RepHoulahan.
“We are veterans and national security professionals who love this country and swore an oath to protect and defend the Constitution of the United States. That oath lasts a…
— Sen. Elissa Slotkin (@SenatorSlotkin) November 20, 2025
The lawmakers stressed that their guidance applied broadly to illegal orders and emphasized constitutional duties, with Slotkin stating, “No threat, intimidation, or call for violence will deter us from that sacred obligation.” No specific incidents of illegal orders were cited in the video.
Read More: Senate hosts high-level dialogue on AI’s role in democratic governance
Trump’s comments follow a pattern of targeting political opponents, including calls to imprison adversaries, while his administration faces scrutiny over military actions and executive authority.