Democrat Pins New Accusation On Trump
Sen. Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.) is pushing back against what she claims is politically motivated pressure from the Trump administration, following her involvement in a controversial video aimed at U.S. military service members.
Slotkin was one of six Democratic lawmakers who appeared in a recorded message reminding members of the armed forces that they are not required to follow unlawful orders. Speaking during a televised interview Thursday, the Michigan senator alleged that the federal government is using the justice system to discourage dissent.
She argued that legal scrutiny is being applied not as a neutral enforcement tool, but as a means of intimidation designed to silence political opponents.
Earlier that same day, Slotkin released a video on social media announcing she would not comply with a request from the Department of Justice to participate in an interview related to the video.
According to Slotkin, both Attorney General Pam Bondi and the U.S. Attorney for Washington, D.C., Jeanine Pirro requested to question her about the recording. She said she declined both requests.
Slotkin stated that the inquiry began after President Donald Trump publicly criticized the video on social media, calling it inappropriate and dangerous. Shortly thereafter, she said, the FBI and Department of Justice opened an investigation into the lawmakers involved.
At this stage, Slotkin said she does not intend to participate in the inquiry, arguing that the video was publicly released and that she has already addressed its contents in numerous public forums. She maintained that her actions are protected under the First Amendment.
Five of the lawmakers who appeared in the video — all of whom have prior military or intelligence backgrounds — confirmed in mid-January that they were under federal investigation related to the 90-second recording.
The video also included Sen. Mark Kelly of Arizona, along with Reps. Jason Crow of Colorado, Chrissy Houlahan and Chris Deluzio of Pennsylvania, and Maggie Goodlander of New Hampshire.
In the video, the lawmakers addressed service members directly, referencing their oath to uphold the U.S. Constitution. They emphasized that military personnel are obligated to follow lawful orders, but are not required to carry out directives that violate federal law or constitutional principles.
Slotkin also disclosed that she has formally requested the Department of Justice preserve all records related to the case. She said she is considering additional legal options, including potential action if she believes her constitutional rights have been infringed.
While acknowledging that the Supreme Court has recognized broad immunity for presidents acting in their official capacity, Slotkin argued that such protections do not necessarily extend to federal officials implementing political directives.
She warned that public trust can erode when federal law enforcement agencies are perceived as being used for political purposes.
Rep. Chrissy Houlahan separately confirmed that she has also declined the Department of Justice’s request for an interview related to the investigation.
