💥 BREAKING NEWS

A federal judge has blocked the Pentagon from penalizing Senator Mark Kelly over his participation in a video urging U.S. military personnel that they have the right to refuse unlawful orders.$ESP

Judge Richard J. Leon, appointed by former President George W. Bush, ruled that the Pentagon’s efforts to reduce Kelly’s retirement benefits or demote him are likely unconstitutional and violate his First Amendment rights. In his ruling, Judge Leon stated:$BTR

This Court has all it needs to conclude that Defendants have trampled on Senator Kelly’s First Amendment freedoms… To say the least, our retired veterans deserve more respect from their Government, and our Constitution demands they receive it.”$TAKE

Key Details:

The Pentagon had moved to penalize Kelly, a retired U.S. Air Force pilot, after he appeared in a video urging troops that they could legally refuse illegal orders.

Judge Leon issued a temporary block preventing any action against Kelly while the case proceeds in court.

Legal experts note that the ruling emphasizes the constitutional protections for retired military members when expressing their opinions on matters of public concern.

The ruling has sparked debate about military free speech and political advocacy, especially regarding retired personnel speaking on lawful vs. unlawful orders.

Significance:

This case underscores that even retired military members have First Amendment protections, and attempts to punish them for expressing lawful political views can face judicial scrutiny. Analysts say it could set a precedent for how the government interacts with retired service members who engage in public discourse.

✅ Status: The Pentagon cannot penalize Senator Kelly for now, and the case will continue in court.#CZAMAonBinanceSquare