Overview
- Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth issued a formal letter of censure and initiated retirement‑grade determination proceedings under 10 U.S.C. § 1370(f) against the Arizona senator.
- Hegseth alleges violations of UCMJ Articles 133 and 134, arguing Kelly’s statements undermined good order and discipline while he remains a retired officer drawing pay.
- Kelly is the only lawmaker from the November video under Pentagon jurisdiction because he is a formal retiree; the inquiry began in late November.
- The process gives Kelly 30 days to respond, with a determination directed within 45 days; the Navy has been tasked to provide a recommendation.
- Kelly called the move outrageous and vowed to fight it, Democrats condemned it as political retribution, and President Trump had labeled the video seditious and “punishable by DEATH,” while legal experts say the action is novel and likely to face court challenges.