Republican Sens. John Curtis (Utah) and Lisa Murkowski (Alaska) have shown their support for fellow Sen. Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.) amidst a Pentagon investigation into “serious allegations of misconduct” against the senator. This comes after Kelly, along with five other Democratic lawmakers, urged service members to disobey any illegal orders from the Trump administration.
In a statement released on Tuesday afternoon on the social platform X, Curtis expressed his unwavering support for Kelly, stating that he stands by his colleague’s actions and words. He also emphasized the importance of standing up for what is right, even in the face of adversity.
Murkowski, who has a history of working across party lines, also stood by Kelly’s side, stating that she believes in his integrity and character. She further added that it is important for lawmakers to speak out against any actions that go against the values of our country.
The Pentagon investigation was launched after Kelly and five other Democratic lawmakers sent a letter to the Department of Defense, urging service members to not follow any orders that are deemed illegal by the Uniform Code of Military Justice. The letter specifically addressed the potential use of military force against peaceful protesters, which was a major concern during the height of the Black Lives Matter protests last year.
The letter stated, “We write to remind you that it is your duty to refuse to comply with any illegal order to use force against American citizens exercising their constitutional right to peaceful protest. Any such order would be illegal, immoral, and unconstitutional, and should be met with the utmost resistance.”
This bold move by Kelly and his colleagues sparked controversy and backlash from the Trump administration, with some accusing them of encouraging insubordination within the military. However, Curtis and Murkowski’s support for Kelly shows that they stand by his decision to speak out against any potential violation of citizens’ rights.
Curtis also highlighted the importance of holding those in positions of power accountable for their actions. He stated, “It is our duty as lawmakers to ensure that our military is not being used for political gain or to suppress the voices of our citizens. We must hold those in power accountable and stand up for what is right.”
Murkowski echoed this sentiment, stating that it is crucial for lawmakers to speak out against any actions that go against the values of our country. She also emphasized the importance of protecting the rights and freedoms of all Americans, regardless of their political beliefs.
The support shown by Curtis and Murkowski for Kelly’s actions is a testament to their commitment to upholding the principles of democracy and standing up for what is right. It is a reminder that in times of uncertainty and division, it is important for lawmakers to come together and prioritize the well-being of the American people.
In conclusion, the backing of Republican Sens. John Curtis and Lisa Murkowski for Sen. Mark Kelly amidst the Pentagon investigation is a powerful display of bipartisanship and a reminder that standing up for what is right knows no political boundaries. It is a call to action for all lawmakers to prioritize the values and rights of the American people above all else. As Curtis stated, “We must always remember that our loyalty lies with the American people, not with any political party or individual.”
