WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Defense has begun administrative proceedings that could reduce the military retirement status and benefits of Senator Mark Kelly, a Democrat from Arizona and retired Navy captain, following his participation in a video last November addressing U.S. service members. 

In the video, Kelly and other lawmakers reminded members of the armed forces that service members have a duty to refuse unlawful orders, a legal principle under U.S. military law. The video was released amid heightened debate over recent U.S. military actions and questions about the legality of certain commands. 

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has formally censured Kelly and initiated what is known as a retirement grade determination process, which could result in Kelly being downgraded from his retired rank of Navy captain. A reduction in retired rank would also reduce his military retirement pay. A written reprimand will be attached to Kelly’s military record if the process proceeds. Reuters

Officials say Kelly has 30 days to respond to the action, after which a final decision could follow within several weeks. The move does not currently involve recalling Kelly to active duty or pursuing a court-martial, though past remarks from administration officials suggested serious punitive options had been considered. 

Kelly, who served about 25 years in the U.S. Navy before entering politics, has publicly rejected the effort as politically motivated and said he plans to challenge the actions. Observers note that applying military administrative procedures to a sitting senator is highly unusual and raises questions about legislative speech protections and the intersection of military law and political advocacy. AP News

The proceedings reflect broader tensions between the Pentagon leadership and lawmakers over civilian oversight of the military and statements that touch on military duty and legal obligations. 

Sources: AP News, CNBC, Politico, The Atlantic