Inkster, Michigan, December 9, 2025
Senator Elissa Slotkin of Michigan has established a legal defense fund in response to an FBI inquiry concerning a video in which she and five other lawmakers urged military personnel to refuse unconstitutional orders. Following President Trump’s accusations of sedition against the lawmakers, Slotkin seeks to manage the legal implications from ongoing investigations and public backlash. The situation has raised concerns about the politicization of federal agencies and resulted in increased security threats against her office.
Inkster, Michigan – December 9, 2025
Senator Elissa Slotkin Establishes Legal Defense Fund Amid FBI Inquiry and Presidential Accusations
Senator Elissa Slotkin of Michigan has initiated a legal defense fund following an FBI inquiry into a video she and five other Democratic lawmakers released, urging military and intelligence personnel to refuse illegal orders. This action comes after President Donald Trump accused the lawmakers of sedition, a charge that experts have questioned. The establishment of the defense fund aims to support the legal costs associated with the ongoing investigation and public scrutiny.
Background of the Video and Presidential Response
In November 2025, Senator Slotkin, along with Senators Mark Kelly of Arizona and Representatives Jason Crow, Maggie Goodlander, Chrissy Houlahan, and Chris Deluzio, released a video addressing military and intelligence community members. In the video, they emphasized the right and duty to refuse unlawful orders, stating, “You can refuse illegal orders.” The video did not specify particular orders but underscored adherence to the Constitution and lawful directives. President Trump responded by labeling the video as “seditious behavior,” suggesting it was “punishable by DEATH,” and called for the arrest and trial of the lawmakers involved. He also reshared posts from other users advocating for severe consequences against the lawmakers. Legal experts have expressed skepticism about the applicability of sedition charges in this context, noting that the lawmakers were merely restating established legal principles regarding unlawful orders.
FBI Inquiry and Legal Defense Fund
Following the video release, the FBI’s Counterterrorism Division reportedly opened an inquiry into the six lawmakers. Senator Slotkin confirmed that the FBI had reached out to them, indicating the initiation of an investigation. In response to the legal challenges and potential costs associated with the inquiry, Senator Slotkin and Senator Kelly have established legal defense funds to support their defense against the investigation and related legal proceedings.
Public Reaction and Security Concerns
The controversy has led to significant public reaction. Senator Slotkin’s office has received numerous threats, including a bomb threat at her residence, prompting increased security measures. She has expressed concern over the use of federal agencies for political intimidation and emphasized the importance of upholding constitutional principles.
Legal Perspectives on the Situation
Legal experts have weighed in on the situation, with some questioning the viability of sedition charges against the lawmakers. They suggest that the case may face significant legal challenges and could be dismissed before reaching court.
Conclusion
The establishment of legal defense funds by Senator Slotkin and Senator Kelly highlights the ongoing legal and political complexities arising from the video urging military personnel to refuse illegal orders. The situation continues to evolve, with legal proceedings and public discourse shaping the narrative surrounding this issue.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What prompted Senator Elissa Slotkin to establish a legal defense fund?
Senator Elissa Slotkin established a legal defense fund following an FBI inquiry into a video she and five other Democratic lawmakers released. In the video, they urged military and intelligence personnel to refuse illegal orders. This action came after President Donald Trump accused the lawmakers of sedition, a charge that experts have questioned. The defense fund aims to support the legal costs associated with the ongoing investigation and public scrutiny.
What was the content of the video released by Senator Slotkin and other lawmakers?
In November 2025, Senator Slotkin, along with Senators Mark Kelly of Arizona and Representatives Jason Crow, Maggie Goodlander, Chrissy Houlahan, and Chris Deluzio, released a video addressing military and intelligence community members. In the video, they emphasized the right and duty to refuse unlawful orders, stating, “You can refuse illegal orders.” The video did not specify particular orders but underscored adherence to the Constitution and lawful directives.
How did President Trump respond to the video?
President Trump responded by labeling the video as “seditious behavior,” suggesting it was “punishable by DEATH,” and called for the arrest and trial of the lawmakers involved. He also reshared posts from other users advocating for severe consequences against the lawmakers. Legal experts have expressed skepticism about the applicability of sedition charges in this context, noting that the lawmakers were merely restating established legal principles regarding unlawful orders.
What has been the public reaction to the situation?
The controversy has led to significant public reaction. Senator Slotkin’s office has received numerous threats, including a bomb threat at her residence, prompting increased security measures. She has expressed concern over the use of federal agencies for political intimidation and emphasized the importance of upholding constitutional principles.
What do legal experts say about the potential sedition charges?
Legal experts have weighed in on the situation, with some questioning the viability of sedition charges against the lawmakers. They suggest that the case may face significant legal challenges and could be dismissed before reaching court.
Key Features of the Situation
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Video Release | Senator Slotkin and five other Democratic lawmakers released a video urging military and intelligence personnel to refuse illegal orders, emphasizing adherence to the Constitution and lawful directives. |
| Presidential Response | President Trump labeled the video as “seditious behavior,” suggesting it was “punishable by DEATH,” and called for the arrest and trial of the lawmakers involved. |
| FBI Inquiry | The FBI’s Counterterrorism Division reportedly opened an inquiry into the six lawmakers following the video release. |
| Legal Defense Fund | In response to the inquiry and potential legal costs, Senator Slotkin and Senator Kelly established legal defense funds to support their defense against the investigation and related legal proceedings. |
| Public Reaction | Senator Slotkin’s office received numerous threats, including a bomb threat at her residence, prompting increased security measures and raising concerns over the use of federal agencies for political intimidation. |
| Legal Perspectives | Legal experts have questioned the viability of sedition charges against the lawmakers, suggesting the case may face significant legal challenges and could be dismissed before reaching court. |
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DETROIT STAFF WRITER The DETROIT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDetroitMI.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Detroit, Wayne County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Movement Electronic Music Festival, Detroit Grand Prix, and America's Thanksgiving Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Detroit Regional Chamber and Focus HOPE, plus leading businesses in automotive and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors, Ford Motor Company, and Henry Ford Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
