Marine Corps Condemns Veteran's Threats Against President Trump in Campaign Video

The Marine Corps has strongly condemned a former service member for making threatening statements against President Donald Trump during his campaign video. William Upham, who is running as a write-in candidate for Florida’s 5th Congressional District, posted the controversial remarks on social media earlier this week.

In the six-minute clip, Upham, who served in the Marine Corps from June 2021 to September 2025 and reached the rank of first lieutenant before being medically discharged, accused Trump of being "the antichrist" and "the enemy of God." He further escalated his rhetoric by stating that President Trump must be killed, referring to him as “your enemy.”

The Marine Corps responded swiftly with a formal statement on Tuesday. The service branch denounced Upham’s comments as a violation of the oath he took upon joining the military and emphasized that they do not align with the values upheld within the ranks. Acting Navy Secretary Hung Cao echoed this sentiment, declaring Upham's remarks "unacceptable" and clarifying that Upham no longer represents Marine Corps ethos or values.

Upham’s campaign video has drawn significant attention due to its inflammatory content. Federal law strictly prohibits threats against the president, with penalties including up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 for such violations. The legal implications surrounding Upham's statements are now under scrutiny.

The controversy highlights ongoing debates about political discourse and the ethical boundaries for military veterans who enter politics. It also underscores the importance of maintaining professional conduct among those with military backgrounds when engaging in public office campaigns or political activism.

As the November election approaches, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential risks associated with crossing legal and moral lines while campaigning, especially given the sensitive nature of threats directed at high-ranking officials like the President. The Marine Corps’ decisive action to distance itself from Upham’s inflammatory rhetoric is indicative of the service's commitment to upholding its values and integrity.

This case has sparked broader discussions about the role of military veterans in political discourse and the responsibilities they carry as former members of the armed forces, even after leaving active duty.