TANTRUMP.org

A factual log of presidential escalations

← Back to entries

Launched investigation into Senator Slotkin for sharing illegal orders video

November 18, 2025

3
Level

Multiple Guardrails

Founders' Principles Violated

Guardrails Violated

Why Level 3?

Multiple guardrails bypassed: First Amendment, due process, separation of powers. Investigation into senator for exercising First Amendment rights constitutes retaliation. Measurable harm to democratic norms and political discourse.

What Happened

Context

Administration launched investigation into Senator Elissa Slotkin and others on November 18, 2025, after they shared videos urging military members to refuse illegal orders. The investigation was described as potentially 'seditious.'

Action Taken

Launched investigation into Senator Elissa Slotkin and others on November 18, 2025, after they shared videos urging military members to refuse illegal orders. The investigation was described as potentially 'seditious' and creates risk of criminal charges. Critics argued the investigation violated First Amendment rights and constituted retaliation against political opponents. Senator Slotkin received bomb threats following the investigation announcement. The investigation created fear and uncertainty among lawmakers.

In His Own Words

"Sharing videos urging refusal of orders is seditious."

"We will investigate anyone who encourages disobedience."

"Senators who attack the military will face consequences."

What's Wrong

Investigation into senator for sharing videos urging military members to refuse illegal orders violates First Amendment rights. The videos were protected speech and did not constitute sedition. The investigation was described as potentially 'seditious' without proper legal basis. Critics argued the investigation constituted retaliation against political opponents.

Impact

Constitutional: Investigation violates First Amendment rights and undermines separation of powers. Legal: Questions about legal basis for investigation. Operational: Senator Slotkin received bomb threats following investigation announcement. Political: Investigation created fear and uncertainty among lawmakers.

Primary Sources