CME Statement on Mark Kelly and Democrats Telling Troops to Disobey Orders

by CME Press Room | Published November 26, 2025

WASHINGTON – The Coalition for Military Excellence (CME), a national organization dedicated to advocating for veterans and military excellence in the U.S. armed forces, issued the following statement regarding the Pentagon’s investigation into Senator Mark Kelly’s participation in a video instructing troops to refuse orders:

“The reckless and misleading video released by Senator Mark Kelly and other members of Congress sets a dangerous precedent. CME commends the Department of War for promptly examining it further and pushing the UCMJ to look into the language used. Our troops are already trained to refuse clearly unlawful orders, and to report them immediately through the chain of command. Grandstanding from elected officials that blurs that bright-line standard is despicable, sows confusion in the ranks, and undermines good order and discipline. An investigation protects the force, affirms the Uniform Code of Military Justice, and sends a clear message: America’s warfighters take lawful orders, win the mission, and keep politics out of the foxhole.

“CME stands for merit, preparedness, retention, funding that strengthens warfighters, not bureaucracy, and honoring those who serve. Senator Kelly’s conduct runs counter to each of these pillars. The Kelly video muddies the standard, causes confusion, encourages hesitation in lawful combat environments, and puts lives at risk. The Pentagon’s action is a necessary step to restore clarity, deter future politicization, and safeguard the integrity of command.

“CME urges a swift, transparent review. Our men and women in uniform deserve leaders who strengthen discipline, sharpen readiness, and honor the apolitical character of the U.S. military. We will continue to support measures that keep the force focused on mission, merit, and excellence, and we applaud the Department of War for doing exactly that,” said Amber Smith, CME Military Advisor.

The Coalition for Military Excellence (CME) is a national organization dedicated to advocating for veterans and military excellence in the U.S. armed forces. CME is committed to combating policies and practices that undermine military excellence and threaten veteran support services. CME’s mission is to ensure the United States military remains focused on our nation's security through merit, strength, and excellence, while advocating for veterans and military.

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CME has a roster of experienced, veteran and military ambassadors available for comment or interview. If you're interested in getting their unique perspectives for your coverage, please email inquiries@militaryexcellence.org.