Sen. Mark Kelly sues Pentagon chief over demotion threat

Democratic Senator Mark Kelly filed a lawsuit against Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Monday, alleging that the Pentagon’s efforts to demote him violate his First Amendment rights.

Kelly, a retired Navy captain, claims the proceedings are a form of retaliation for releasing a video urging Army service members to reject unlawful orders. His lawsuit seeks to block Hegseth’s review and declare the actions unlawful.

Hegseth criticized Kelly for his public remarks, which came amid controversy over President Donald Trump’s deployment of the National Guard in several states and lethal strikes on suspected drug-smuggling vessels in the Caribbean.

Kelly says Hegseth’s action serves as a chilling warning to retired military members speaking out.