‘Seditious Six’ lament targeted shooting of National Guardsmen after telling Americans troops were following ‘illegal orders’

Senator Elissa Slotkin wrote, "Sending prayers and strength to the friends, families and fellow guardsmen of the two West Virginians who were shot in Washington, DC. These individuals signed up to serve because they cared about their community and their country, and to have this happen the day before Thanksgiving is heartbreaking."

Slotkin previously worked for the CIA and appeared alongside other lawmakers who previously served in the military or in intelligence roles to call on active-duty troops to "refuse illegal orders." It has been reported that the suspect in the shooting of the two West Virginia National Guard members, 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal, who came to the US in 2021 under Operation Allies Welcome, had a working relationship with American agencies, including the CIA, while serving in the Afghan Army.

Senator Mark Kelly wrote, "This is horrific. I’m thinking of the families of these two National Guard members who lost their lives while serving the day before Thanksgiving. Thank you to the first responders who’ve brought a suspect into custody."

“Heartbroken to hear of the shooting of two West Virginia National Guardsmen in Washington, D.C. today—just awful," wrote Rep. Chris Deluzio. "I’m praying for these Guardsmen and their loved ones in this terrible time."

Rep. Maggie Goodlander wrote, "My heart is with the two members of the National Guard who were shot in our nation’s capital. They are serving because they love our country and I am praying for them, for their loved ones, and for all guardsmen. Thank you to every first responder and law enforcement professional who acted with courage and love to care for the victims of the shooting and keep our capital safe. May God Bless our troops and the United States of America."

"My thoughts are with the members of the West Virginia National Guard who were shot this afternoon in Washington, D.C," wrote Rep. Chrissy Houlahan. "I am grateful to the first responders on the scene, who apprehended the suspect and prevented more violence from breaking out."

Rep. Jason Crow wrote, "I’m horrified by today's tragic shooting of two brave National Guardsmen. Our servicemembers are the very best of America. Violence like this is unacceptable. My heart is with them, their families, and the dedicated men & women of our National Guard."

In the video posted on November 18, the lawmakers said, "This administration is pitting our uniformed military and intelligence community professionals against American citizens. Like us, you all swore an oath to protect and defend this Constitution. Right now, the threats to our Constitution aren’t just coming from abroad, but from right here at home. Our laws are clear: you can refuse illegal orders."

"You must refuse illegal orders. No one has to carry out orders that violate the law or our Constitution. We know this is hard, and that it’s a difficult time to be a public servant. But whether you’re serving in the CIA, the Army, our Navy, the Air Force, your vigilance is critical, and know that we have your back."