U.S. Representative Pat Ryan has condemned the FBI’s decision to investigate six Democratic lawmakers for expressing their views on defying illegal orders. The inquiry comes in the wake of a social media video where these lawmakers urged military personnel to reject unlawful commands. Ryan, a veteran of the Iraq War representing New York’s 19th Congressional District, described the investigation as a “dangerous escalation” of political tensions.
The FBI’s inquiry involves U.S. Senators Mark Kelly of Arizona and Elissa Slotkin of Michigan, along with U.S. Representatives Jason Crow of Colorado, Maggie Goodlander of New Hampshire, and Chris Deluzio and Chrissy Houlahan from Pennsylvania. According to reports, the lawmakers have been contacted by the FBI to schedule interviews regarding their remarks.
Ryan emphasized that the lawmakers acted within their rights to free speech and that their military backgrounds—five of the six are former service members—should not subject them to scrutiny for defending constitutional values. He stated, “They want to silence my fellow veterans and members of a coequal branch of government for saying that our oath to the Constitution comes first.”
The controversy has escalated following comments from Donald Trump, who accused the lawmakers of sedition in a social media post where he suggested that such actions could be “punishable by DEATH.” This rhetoric has drawn strong rebukes from various quarters, including Ryan, who highlighted the severity of Trump’s accusations. “There is no scenario where it is acceptable for our Commander-in-Chief to call for the murder of Members of Congress. None,” he posted on X.
In addition to the FBI’s actions, the Pentagon is reportedly reviewing potential violations of military law related to Senator Kelly. These developments mark a significant involvement of federal law enforcement and military institutions in a political dispute, traditionally avoided in U.S. governance. Critics argue that this represents an alarming trend of using legal mechanisms against political opponents, particularly when they hold elected office.
Fellow Democrat Josh Riley, who also represents New York’s 19th Congressional District, characterized the inquiries as a misuse of resources that distract from pressing national issues. “These are some of the most patriotic people I know,” Riley remarked. He urged the President to focus on more pressing matters, such as healthcare and housing costs, instead of targeting those who defend the Constitution.
As the situation evolves, it highlights the increasingly contentious relationship between the current administration and its critics within Congress. The potential implications of this inquiry could further polarize an already divided political landscape, prompting discussions about the boundaries of free speech and the protection of dissenting voices in government.
