WASHINGTON — Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth rejected a House impeachment effort led by Kentucky Republican Thomas Massie, calling it a political spectacle as lawmakers prepared to consider the measure.
“It’s a farce, and it’s a stunt, and everybody knows it,” Hegseth said.
Massie introduced eight articles of impeachment Monday in a 34-page privileged resolution. Because of that procedural status, the House must act within two legislative days and was expected to take up the resolution Tuesday evening.
The articles focus on the Iran war. Three cite the 1973 War Powers Resolution, including an allegation that Hegseth proceeded without a declaration of war, statutory authorization, an attack on the United States or an imminent threat.
Other articles address strikes in Yemen, Hegseth’s treatment of Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly, and laws intended to limit civilian casualties. The resolution also cites operations involving alleged drug boats and the capture of Venezuela’s deposed leader, Nicolás Maduro.
House Vote Could Be Close
The House Republican majority stands at 218-214, and only members in Washington may vote. Massie said he expected several Republicans to join Democrats.
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries said he was a “hard yes” on impeaching Hegseth.
In September, the House voted 220-204 to end President Donald Trump’s war in Iran, with seven Republicans joining Democrats. House Speaker Mike Johnson had called the impeachment effort a stunt that month.
Hegseth said the military actions named in Massie’s articles were legal, directed by Trump and reported to Congress. He also said U.S. forces do not deliberately target civilians.
Senate Trial Would Require Two-Thirds Vote
If the House approves impeachment, Hegseth would become the third Cabinet secretary in U.S. history to be impeached. The matter would then move to the Senate, where conviction would require support from two-thirds of senators.
Massie said a Senate trial might not start until 2027.
Hegseth said his priority for the lame-duck period is securing at least $350 billion in defense funding. The Trump administration’s lame-duck period runs through 2028.
Category: Republic
Tags: Congress, Pete Hegseth, Thomas Massie, House of Representatives