The last few months haven’t been easy, John.

When I learned that Pete Hegseth was coming for my rank, I had to make a decision I never expected. I’d like to tell you about it, if you’ll listen.

From the time I drove through the gates of Naval Air Station Pensacola until I landed Space Shuttle Endeavour on its final mission, I gave a lot to this country.

When Hegseth censured me and threatened my rank and retirement, he came after what I earned over 25 years — and chilled the rights of every retired member of the military alongside me.

If Hegseth isn’t stopped, our longest-serving military veterans will have to live with the constant threat that they could be deprived of their rank and pension years — even decades — after they leave the military if they say something he doesn’t like.

Freedom of speech, separation of powers, due process — these aren’t just words on a page. They are the bedrock principles of our democracy. We have to defend them.

So, I decided to sue the Secretary of Defense. It’s a serious step, but I couldn’t let this stand.

Now, if I’ve learned anything about Trump and Hegseth over the last year, it’s that it’s impossible to know what they’re going to throw my way next.

What I do know is I’m going to need my top supporters with me, come what may.

So, I’m humbly asking you: Please, chip in to support me as I fight these relentless attacks from Trump and his team.

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Thank you.

Mark

Paid For By Mark Kelly for Senate

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Mark Kelly was a Captain in the U.S. Navy and astronaut. Use of his military rank, job titles and photographs in uniform does not imply endorsement by the Department of the Navy or Department of Defense and reference to NASA does not imply endorsement by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.