DOJO — Senator Mark Kelly is standing firm against President Donald Trump’s remarks, saying he won’t be intimidated or silenced. Kelly, a retired Navy captain and former astronaut, emphasized that he has faced far more serious challenges in life than political intimidation.
Facing danger head-on
Kelly reflected on his military and personal experiences that shaped his resilience.
“I’ve had a missile blow up next to my airplane. I’ve been shot down, nearly shot down multiple times. I’ve flown a rocket ship into space four times built by the lowest bidder.”
He also recounted the 2011 mass shooting that targeted his wife, former Congresswoman Gabby Giffords.
“My wife Gabby Giffords, meeting with her constituents, was shot in the head, and six people were killed around her. A horrific thing. She spent six months in the hospital. We know what political violence is and we know what causes it too.”
Trump’s rhetoric under scrutiny
Kelly said the president’s words carry weight due to his large following.
“The statements Donald Trump made are inciteful. They incite others. He’s got millions of supporters… People listen to what he says more so than anybody else in the country, and he should be careful with his words.”
Standing his ground
Despite the stress of political pressure, Kelly affirmed his commitment to doing his job.
“I’m not gonna be silenced here. Is it stressful? I’ve been stressed by things more important than Donald Trump trying to intimidate me into shutting my mouth and not doing my job.”
He continued:
“He didn’t like what I said. I’m going to show up for work every day, support the Constitution, do my job, hold this administration accountable, hold this president accountable when he is out of line. That is the responsibility of every U.S. senator and every member of Congress… he’s not gonna silence us.”
