Marine Corps Rebukes Florida Candidate William Upham Over Video Urging Trump's Killing
Updated
Updated · Newsweek · Jul 15
Marine Corps Rebukes Florida Candidate William Upham Over Video Urging Trump's Killing
3 articles · Updated · Newsweek · Jul 15
Summary
The Marine Corps said William Upham's call for President Donald Trump to "be killed" violated the oath he once swore and did not reflect Marine values.
Upham, a qualified write-in candidate for Florida's 5th Congressional District, posted the remarks in a lengthy X video while in uniform and framed Trump as the "anti-Christ."
The Corps said Upham was medically discharged on May 30, 2025, distancing the service from him as condemnation spread; Acting Navy Secretary Hung Cao called the comments unacceptable.
The episode lands amid heightened concern over political violence against U.S. officials, with threats against a sitting president drawing particular federal scrutiny after recent attacks and assassination attempts.
Where does the law draw the line between protected free speech and a criminal threat online?
Congressional Candidate’s Threat Against Trump: Legal, Military, and Political Fallout of the William Upham Incident
Overview
In July 2026, William Upham, a Marine veteran and congressional candidate, posted a video in uniform threatening President Donald Trump, which quickly drew national attention due to the seriousness of the threats and his active campaign. The Marine Corps responded immediately, publicly denouncing Upham’s comments and clarifying that he had been medically discharged in 2025. This swift official reaction highlighted the gravity of the situation and the military’s commitment to nonpartisanship, especially when former service members use their military status in political contexts. The incident underscores the legal and ethical boundaries surrounding threats against public officials and military conduct.