Story perspectives

Judge Blasts Hegseth's Retaliation Against Senator Kelly

2/17/2026

Summary

Story summary

On February 17, 2026, The Wall Street Journal criticized Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's attempt to censure Senator Mark Kelly.
A federal judge ruled the action was illegal retaliation against Kelly.
Senator Mark Kelly reminded service members to disobey illegal orders.
A grand jury declined to indict six Democratic lawmakers, a setback for U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro.
The Journal's editors said the episode reflects poorly on U.S. President Donald Trump's officials.

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Story summary

On February 17, 2026, The Wall Street Journal criticized Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's attempt to censure Senator Mark Kelly.
A federal judge ruled the action was illegal retaliation against Kelly.
Senator Mark Kelly reminded service members to disobey illegal orders.
A grand jury declined to indict six Democratic lawmakers, a setback for U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro.
The Journal's editors said the episode reflects poorly on U.S. President Donald Trump's officials.