Senator Ruben Gallego (D‑Arizona) launched a fierce verbal attack on Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, calling him a “coward” after the Pentagon announced it was investigating Senator Mark Kelly for possible misconduct.
The investigation stems from a video in which Kelly and five other Democratic lawmakers urged U.S. service members to disobey “illegal orders.” Hegseth labeled the group the “Seditious Six” and criticized their message as undermining military discipline.
Speaking on CNN, Gallego — a former Marine — told Hegseth:
“You, sir, are a coward! And the fact that you are following this order from the president … shows how big of a coward you are. And I can’t wait ‘til you no longer are the Secretary of Defense.”
Gallego defended Kelly’s message, arguing that reminding service members of their rights under the Uniform Code of Military Justice was an exercise of constitutional duty. He strongly rejected the notion that Kelly’s call was seditious or reckless.
He later took to social media (X) with a blunt statement: “F*** you and your investigation,” asserting that he and others will not be intimidated.
Gallego has also been critical of Hegseth more broadly, having previously opposed his appointment to lead the Pentagon. He questioned Hegseth’s qualifications and leadership, calling him unfit for the role.
