US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is poised to face an impeachment vote in the House of Representatives this week. The move follows the introduction of eight articles of impeachment by Republican Congressman Thomas Massie, alleging “high crimes and misdemeanors” including the unauthorized war against Iran and the suppression of free speech rights belonging to Democratic Senator Mark Kelly.
The Articles of Impeachment
Massie’s resolution, submitted on Monday, initiated a two-day period for a potential House vote. The articles specifically accuse Hegseth of launching military action in Iran without the necessary congressional authorization. Furthermore, they cite violations of the free speech rights of Senator Kelly and five other Democratic lawmakers, who Hegseth reportedly sought to prosecute after they encouraged US troops to refuse unlawful orders.
Congressional sources suggest the resolution might garner enough support to pass in the House. However, a conviction in the Senate, which requires a two-thirds majority, is considered improbable given the Republican party holds 53 of the 100 seats.
Political Battle Lines Drawn
The impeachment effort has quickly exposed deep divisions within the Republican party and drawn strong reactions from key figures. President Donald Trump vehemently defended Hegseth, emphasizing the military's performance in Iran and Venezuela. “Well, he won two wars. I don't know how you can impeach him,” Trump told Reuters, later labeling Massie a “stone-cold loser” and vowing to stand by his defense secretary even if the House impeached him.
House Speaker Mike Johnson also voiced opposition, arguing that impeachment during ongoing hostilities abroad would send a detrimental message to US allies and adversaries. Secretary of State Marco Rubio echoed this sentiment, describing the effort as unfair and commending Hegseth’s performance.
For his part, Secretary Hegseth has pledged to remain in office and fight the charges. In a video message, he stated, “It didn't work against President Trump, and it won't work with me,” expressing confidence in defeating the resolution.
Broader Political Context
This impeachment push emerges amid significant Republican disagreements over the Iran war, a factor that contributed to Democrats securing control of Congress in last week’s midterm elections. Democrats have also committed to launching their own investigations into Hegseth concerning the dismissal of the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and other senior military officials.
Massie indicated that his impeachment effort represents a more moderate approach compared to what Hegseth might encounter once Democrats assume control of the House on January 3. Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer has called for Hegseth to stand trial, accusing him of waging war in defiance of the Constitution and congressional war powers resolutions.