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Senators Kelly and Young discuss bipartisan work ahead of U.S. 250th anniversary
Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly and Republican Sen. Todd Young appeared on ABC News to discuss cross-party cooperation. The senators are profiled in a new book about elected officials who are military veterans.
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Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly of Arizona and Republican Sen. Todd Young of Indiana appeared on ABC News' "This Week" on June 28, 2026, to discuss working across party lines. The senators spoke as the country prepares to mark its 250th anniversary on July 4. Both are profiled in the book "Courage Can Save US" by Rye Barcott, which focuses on elected officials who served in the military.
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Book profiles veterans in Congress Barcott, co-founder and CEO of With Honor, said the organization has supported over 100 veterans, with about 50 currently serving in Congress. The group asks members to pledge to serve with integrity, civility and courage, including a willingness to work across party lines.
Kelly, a retired Navy captain and former NASA astronaut, said senators must sometimes take positions that benefit the country even when those stands carry political risk. Young, a Marine Corps veteran, said the courage required in military service is similar to the courage needed in elected office.
Senators collaborate on shipbuilding legislation Kelly and Young have worked together on legislation aimed at strengthening U.S. shipbuilding and commercial maritime industries. Young said their partnership continued even after President Trump accused Kelly and other Democrats of sedition over a video they recorded.
The Justice Department did not secure indictments against the lawmakers, and a judge blocked an attempt by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to reduce Kelly's military rank and retirement pay. Young said the White House assured him the shipbuilding work could continue.
