Democrats Capitalize on Grand Jury Ruling to Fundraise After Military Video Controversy

A federal grand jury in Washington, D.C., declined to indict Senator Elissa Slotkin of Michigan, Senator Mark Kelly of Arizona, and four other Democratic members of Congress following a Justice Department investigation into a social media video posted late last year.

The probe was initiated after the lawmakers released a 90-second clip urging U.S. service members to question the legality of certain military orders amid discussions about the Trump administration’s targeted strikes on suspected drug-trafficking vessels in Latin America.

The decision not to indict represents a setback for U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro and the Trump administration.

Slotkin promptly leveraged the situation by issuing fundraising appeals, holding a press conference, appearing on television, and posting extensively on social media platforms following the grand jury’s ruling. A Democratic National Committee fundraising message stated: “They tried to indict me. I want to walk you through what happened and then ask for your help in fighting back against this legal intimidation from the Trump administration.”

Other Democrats under investigation similarly capitalized on the moment. Reports indicate that Kelly, who is already a leading online fundraiser despite not being up for re-election this year, experienced significant fundraising gains after news of the investigation emerged.

Prior to the grand jury’s decision, Kelly’s team sent an email to supporters stating: “What we need from this team, right now, is the peace of mind that Mark has all the resources he’ll need to stay the course.”

At least two additional House Democrats have also issued fundraising appeals referencing the federal inquiry. Representative Jason Crow of Colorado requested $10 from supporters after mentioning the investigation, while Representative Chris Deluzio of Pennsylvania stated he would not “be intimidated by any harassment campaign.”

A Democratic strategist defended the strategy, noting: “It takes resources to get our message out, hold Trump to account, and win back seats. I’m glad these members are seizing on this moment and fighting back.”