As the United States approaches its semiquincentennial on Independence Day a unique partnership between two senators from opposing parties is gaining attention. Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly of Arizona and Republican Sen. Todd Young of Indiana are advocating for a different kind of political courage—one that prioritizes the nation’s best interests over partisan gains.
In a recent appearance on ABC News’ “This Week” the two senators discussed the importance of working across the aisle and the challenges that come with it. Their conversation, moderated by co-anchor Jonathan Karl highlighted the similarities between the courage required in military service and that needed in political leadership.
Courage in Leadership: A Different Kind of Bravery
Sen. Young, a former U.S. Marine Corps officer, drew parallels between his military service and his role in the Senate. He emphasized that the courage required in politics is often misunderstood and less familiar to the public. “It’s the courage to be misunderstood by people you respect and love and whose values you share on difficult issues,” Young explained. “It’s courage to do unpopular things and to be held to account.”
Sen. Kelly, a retired Navy captain and former NASA astronaut, echoed this sentiment. He acknowledged the difficulty of taking stands that may be politically harmful but are nonetheless the right thing for the nation. “That’s hard for some folks,” Kelly admitted, underscoring the personal sacrifice often required in political leadership.
The Role of Veterans in Politics
Both Kelly and Young are part of a growing movement of veterans entering politics. They are among the 10 elected officials profiled in the new book “Courage Can Save Us” by author Rye Barcott co-founder and CEO of With Honor an organization dedicated to recruiting bipartisan veterans to run for office. With Honor has supported over 100 veterans, with about 50 currently serving in Congress.
These veterans take a pledge to serve with integrity, civility, and courage including the courage to work across party lines. This pledge is not about agreeing on every policy but about maintaining trust to address matters important to the country. Kelly and Young’s collaboration on legislation to revitalize the U.S.’s shipbuilding and commercial maritime industries is a testament to this commitment.
Navigating Political Challenges
The senators’ partnership faced a significant test when the Trump administration targeted Kelly over a video he and other Democrats recorded. In the video, they told U.S. service members, “Our laws are clear. You can refuse illegal orders.” The Justice Department failed to secure indictments for the six lawmakers involved, and a judge blocked Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth‘s attempt to reduce Kelly’s rank and his military retirement pay.
Young revealed that he texted Kelly the morning President Donald Trump accused the Democrats of sedition over the video. “We had an exchange back and forth,” Young said, emphasizing the importance of trust and solidarity among colleagues, even during difficult times. Despite the political tensions, the two senators continued their work together on the shipbuilding legislation, demonstrating their commitment to bipartisan cooperation.
Kelly acknowledged the complexities of navigating political relationships, especially for Republicans with the Trump administration. “We’re all adults. We understand the complexities of our own individual politics,” he said, adding that it’s easier to be in the minority when facing such challenges.
A Call for Unity on the 250th Anniversary
As America prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary, Kelly and Young offered differing perspectives on the state of the nation. Kelly acknowledged the deep divisions among Americans and criticized Trump for furthering these divisions. “Even this 250th celebration is really an opportunity to think about the history of our country and all the great things we’ve done,” Kelly said, expressing hope that the celebration could foster a sense of unity.
Young, however, argued that the American people need to demand more of their leaders. “This is an experiment. It is a fragile experiment and it only exists if the American people take command of this country,” he said, urging citizens to put people in office who can do a better job. Young’s perspective highlights the importance of civic engagement and the role of the American people in shaping the nation’s future.
As the nation approaches its 250th anniversary, the partnership between Kelly and Young serves as a beacon of hope for bipartisan cooperation and courageous leadership. Their story is a reminder that, even in divided times, there are leaders willing to put the nation’s best interests first.
