A political firestorm erupted in Washington this week after six Democrat lawmakers entered 24/7 security lockdown following strong criticism from President Donald Trump.
The lawmakers claim they needed constant protection after releasing a video urging U.S. service members to “refuse illegal orders”—a message many conservatives say dangerously undermines the chain of command.
Sen. Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) told MS NOW that Capitol Police immediately placed the group under round-the-clock monitoring.
“Officers are at my home. Everything changed the moment the president responded,” Slotkin said, describing what she called an “instant” backlash.
The Controversial Video That Sparked It All
The dispute began when Slotkin joined Sen. Mark Kelly and Reps. Jason Crow, Chris Deluzio, Chrissy Houlahan, and Maggie Goodlander in a 60-second video warning service members about so-called “illegal orders.”
Their message framed political disagreements as threats to the Constitution and implied that military personnel may need to defy directives from their Commander-in-Chief.
For many Americans—especially veterans and military families—this crossed a serious line.
Trump Responds With Forceful Condemnation
President Trump posted multiple statements on Truth Social criticizing the lawmakers for encouraging behavior that could weaken national security.
Trump argued that elected officials should never tell the military to ignore presidential authority, stressing that such rhetoric puts the country at risk.
He demanded accountability, writing: “These individuals should face consequences. We cannot allow this type of conduct or we won’t have a country left.”
Supporters quickly backed him up, with many saying the lawmakers’ message was irresponsible at a time when the world is becoming more dangerous and America needs strength, stability, and unity under the President.
Massive Public Backlash Stuns Democrats
According to Slotkin, public reaction was immediate.
She said she received “hundreds, if not thousands” of calls and messages after the video circulated and after Trump addressed it publicly.
Slotkin—who previously served as a CIA analyst and later worked at the Pentagon during the Obama years—is the only member of the group without military experience. The others served in the Navy, Air Force, or Army.
Even so, critics argue that service members take an oath to uphold the Constitution, not partisan messaging, and that telling troops to question presidential authority only creates confusion and instability.
A Warning Shot for Democrats Heading Into 2026
The fallout shows just how fiercely Americans react when elected officials appear to challenge the military chain of command. With the 2026 midterms on the horizon, Democrats may face growing scrutiny over rhetoric that voters perceive as extreme or reckless.
For many conservatives—especially older Americans who value patriotism, stability, and respect for the armed forces—President Trump’s firm response was a reminder that strong leadership still matters.
