The U.S. Marine Corps has publicly disavowed William Upham, a former Marine and current Florida congressional candidate, after he posted a video calling for the assassination of President Donald Trump. The Corps stated that Upham’s remarks violate the oath he swore and do not align with its values. Upham, who was medically discharged on May 30, 2025, has faced widespread condemnation for his statements.
Part 1: Immediate Action & Core Facts
The Marine Corps issued a statement on social media, condemning Upham’s remarks as "disturbing" and a "direct violation" of his oath. Acting Secretary of the Navy Hung Cao also denounced Upham, stating he no longer represents Marine values. Upham, in his video, claimed Trump is the "Antichrist" and must be killed, citing Trump’s criticism of Pope Leo XIV and an AI-generated image of himself as a Jesus-like figure.
Part 2: Deeper Dive & Context
Upham’s Background and Campaign
Upham, a former first lieutenant, medically retired and worked as a prosecutor in Pensacola and Jacksonville. His campaign has centered on military service, with slogans like "God and country." In his video, he argued that the U.S. political system is "broken" and that Trump is an "enemy of God." He also stated that violence should not be used for vengeance but that self-defense against enemies is necessary.
Marine Corps Response
The Corps emphasized that Upham’s comments do not reflect its values or ethos. The statement was posted on X (formerly Twitter), reinforcing the military’s stance against such rhetoric. The White House and Marine Corps were contacted for further comment but did not immediately respond.
Political and Public Reaction
Upham’s remarks have drawn condemnation from across the political spectrum. While some critics have focused on the extremism of his statements, others have questioned the broader implications of a former military officer making such claims. The incident has reignited debates about free speech, political rhetoric, and the role of military veterans in politics.
Long-Term Implications
The fallout from Upham’s statements could impact his congressional campaign, as well as broader discussions about the intersection of military service and political discourse. The Marine Corps’ swift disavowal underscores the military’s commitment to distancing itself from extremist rhetoric, regardless of political affiliation.