
The Rachel Maddow Show 'It's absurd': Sen. Kelly bites back at Trump, Hegseth threats over 'illegal orders' video
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Nov 25, 2025 Senator Mark Kelly, a retired U.S. Navy captain and former NASA astronaut, shares his insights on the absurdity of threats from Trump and Pete Hegseth for his video calling out illegal orders. He emphasizes the importance of protecting military integrity against a president who disregards the Constitution. Kelly reflects on personal risks, including his past experiences with Gabby Giffords' shooting, while advocating for service members to refuse unlawful orders. The discussion also touches on bizarre antics from Bolsonaro, raising questions about Trump's awareness.
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Bolsonaro Tampered With Ankle Monitor
- Rachel Maddow narrated Jair Bolsonaro admitting he tampered with his ankle monitor and being rearrested the same night.
- The arrest came after his son summoned a crowd and police detected the ankle bracelet breach.
Trump's Comment Raises Questions
- Donald Trump publicly claimed he spoke with Bolsonaro and expected to meet him 'in the very near future' despite Bolsonaro's arrest.
- Maddow suggested Trump's comment may have unintentionally hinted at plans to help Bolsonaro flee to U.S. protection.
Allied And JAG Legal Concerns
- Allies and internal military lawyers have raised legal concerns about U.S. strikes in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific.
- Those doubts help explain why lawmakers felt compelled to publicly warn service members about possibly illegal orders.

