Secretary of War Pete Hegseth announced administrative action against Sen. Mark Kelly that will result in a reduction of his military retirement rank and pay, citing seditious public conduct that undermined military discipline.
In a statement posted to X, Hegseth said the department has initiated retirement grade determination proceedings against Kelly, a retired Navy captain who continues to receive a military pension. The action follows a video released roughly six weeks ago by Kelly and five other members of Congress that the department characterized as reckless and damaging to good order within the armed forces.
Under the process, initiated pursuant to federal law, Kelly’s retired grade could be lowered, triggering a corresponding reduction in retirement benefits. Hegseth also issued a formal Letter of Censure outlining a pattern of misconduct. The censure will be placed permanently in Kelly’s official military personnel file.
Kelly’s conduct violated Articles 133 and 134 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice, and he has been formally notified of the proceedings. He has 30 days to submit a response. The Department of War said the retirement grade review is expected to be completed within 45 days.
Secretary of War Pete Hegseth on X
