Story perspectives

Justice Department Probes Lawmakers Over Military Resistance Video

1/15/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Justice Department is investigating Democratic lawmakers, including Senator Elissa Slotkin and Representative Jason Crow, for a video encouraging military members to resist illegal orders.
U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro requested an interview with Slotkin, signaling a serious escalation in the inquiry.
Crow accused former President Donald Trump of using the DOJ to intimidate them, asserting they are being targeted for restating military law.
Trump described their actions as “seditious,” highlighting ongoing tensions between his administration and critics.

History

Historical Context

The Espionage Act of 1917, enacted shortly after the U.S. entered World War I, criminalized dissent against military actions, leading to over 2,000 prosecutions. Notably, socialist leader Eugene V. Debs was sentenced to ten years for an anti-war speech in 1918. Current scrutiny of lawmakers Slotkin and Crow for urging military resistance reflects ongoing tensions between civil liberties and government authority in American history.

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Story summary

The Justice Department is investigating Democratic lawmakers, including Senator Elissa Slotkin and Representative Jason Crow, for a video encouraging military members to resist illegal orders.
U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro requested an interview with Slotkin, signaling a serious escalation in the inquiry.
Crow accused former President Donald Trump of using the DOJ to intimidate them, asserting they are being targeted for restating military law.
Trump described their actions as “seditious,” highlighting ongoing tensions between his administration and critics.

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