Swalwell Says Some U.S. Troops Privately Told Him They’re Ready to “Check” President Trump
Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-CA) is drawing attention after claiming that some U.S. military service members have privately assured him they are prepared to act as a “check” on President Donald Trump if they believe he issues unlawful orders.
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Swalwell made the remarks during an appearance on Don Lemon’s show, where he addressed the controversy surrounding a recent video featuring several Democratic lawmakers urging service members to refuse “illegal” commands. The video has triggered backlash from Trump allies and even a Defense Department review of one senator’s involvement.
According to Swalwell, he frequently hears from service members who express concern about Trump’s leadership and tell him they will uphold their oath to the Constitution above all else.
“Members of the military have told me they see themselves as a check on Donald Trump,” Swalwell said, adding that they would “save us” by refusing unlawful directives.
So far, there is no independent confirmation of how many service members expressed this view or what ranks they hold. The Pentagon has not issued a statement, and no senior military officials have publicly supported Swalwell’s account. Reporting indicates the claim reflects Swalwell’s own characterization of private conversations.
The broader dispute comes amid renewed tensions over civil-military norms. Trump and his allies have sharply criticized the Democratic video as reckless, while its creators insist the message focused on loyalty to the Constitution—not partisan resistance.
Swalwell’s comments add a new layer to the debate, raising questions about how individual service members might navigate orders they view as illegal if political conflict intensifies.
This story continues to develop.