Rep. Thomas Massie, R-Ky., on Monday introduced articles of impeachment against Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, triggering a vote in the House of Representatives as early as this week.
The impeachment push against Hegseth comes after Democrats swept to majorities in both the House and Senate during last week’s midterm elections. Many Republicans, including Vice President JD Vance, have cited the Iran war Hegseth has led as a reason for the electoral bludgeoning.
The Kentucky Republican, who lost his reelection bid in a Republican primary earlier this year, introduced eight articles of impeachment against Hegseth. They include waging war in contravention of war powers resolutions passed by Congress, extrajudicial killings tied to boat strikes in the Caribbean that purported to target drug smugglers and suppressing free speech by targeting Sen. Mark Kelly, D-Ariz., a veteran.
“Wherefore, Secretary of Defense Peter Hegseth, by such conduct, has demonstrated that he will remain a threat to the Constitution if allowed to remain in office, and has acted in a manner grossly incompatible with his duties and the rule of law,” the articles, which Massie read from the House floor, read. “Peter Brian Hegseth thus warrants impeachment and trial, removal from office, and disqualification to hold and enjoy any office of honor, trust, or profit under the United States.”
Massie’s resolution will force House Republican leaders to put the measure up for a vote by the end of this week. Impeachment resolutions are privileged, meaning the House must act on them, table them or vote to refer them to committee within two legislative days.
Hegseth has appeared to be preparing for an impeachment fight. The secretary put out a video last week defending his actions atop the Pentagon, and the department has led a media campaign to “Stand. Fight. Defend the Republic.”
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