On January 5, 2026, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced administrative action against Senator Mark Kelly, including an effort to demote him, citing what he described as seditious statements and a pattern of disloyalty. Hegseth made the announcement through a social media post, which detailed his intent to reduce Kelly’s military rank and affect his retirement pay.
The developments stem from earlier concerns raised by Hegseth in late November 2025, when he directed the Navy secretary to review Kelly’s remarks in a video message addressed to U.S. troops. Hegseth alleged that Kelly made potentially unlawful comments during that communication. The inquiry eventually evolved into the formal administrative action that Hegseth disclosed in January.
Senator Kelly responded promptly, pledging to challenge the Defense Secretary’s orders. Kelly rejected the allegations and framed the move as unjustified. He emphasized his commitment to defending his rank and retirement benefits, which are linked to his prior service in the U.S. Navy, where he held the rank of captain. Kelly’s naval service remains a relevant factor in assessing the administrative decision.
The dispute has brought attention to the procedures the Department of Defense follows when reviewing allegations of misconduct by former military personnel who have transitioned to public office. It also highlighted tensions between elected officials with military backgrounds and the current administration of the Pentagon.
Kelly’s military career included tours as a naval aviator and combat missions. His retirement pay and rank recognition are tied to his active-duty service record. The process to alter a retired officer’s rank and benefits involves formal administrative review and can be initiated under regulations that address conduct deemed incompatible with military standards.
The Pentagon did not release detailed findings from its review but based its action on the conclusions it drew from Kelly’s public statements and conduct post-service. Hegseth characterized the matter as a serious breach warranting reduction in rank and adjustment of retirement pay.
Kelly remains an active U.S. senator from Arizona and a retired naval officer. The administrative action against him marks a rare instance of a sitting senator facing military disciplinary measures related to prior service.
The Department of Defense’s announcement drew responses from various political leaders and legal experts, who noted the complex intersection of military law, civilian authority, and the rights of elected officials with military backgrounds. The case is expected to proceed through defense department channels as Kelly challenges the decision.
