US War Secretary Pete Hegseth is facing an impeachment threat after a Republican lawmaker introduced eight charges against him, raising questions about how Congress could remove President Donald Trump’s Pentagon chief from office.
Republican Congressman Thomas Massie filed the resolution on Monday, accusing Hegseth of abusing his powers, particularly by conducting military operations against Iran without congressional authorisation.
The charges also concern US military operations in Yemen, Venezuela and the Caribbean.
Hegseth has rejected the allegations, calling the impeachment effort a “political spectacle”, while Trump has pledged to stand by him.
How does the US impeachment process work?
Step 1: Introducing impeachment charges
A member of the House of Representatives introduces articles of impeachment outlining alleged misconduct. The Constitution allows impeachment for treason, bribery or other “high crimes and misdemeanors”.
Step 2: House considers the charges
House leaders can seek to dismiss the resolution, refer it to a committee for investigation or allow lawmakers to debate the allegations.
In Hegseth’s case, Republican leaders could attempt to block Massie’s resolution through a procedural vote.
Step 3: Voting on impeachment
If the charges reach a House vote, a simple majority is required to impeach Hegseth.
However, impeachment does not mean immediate dismissal. It only means the House has formally charged him with misconduct.
Step 4: Senate trial
The charges are then sent to the Senate, where lawmakers can hold a trial. House representatives act as prosecutors, while senators consider the evidence and decide whether to convict.
Step 5: Final verdict and removal
Conviction requires a two-thirds majority of senators present. If convicted, Hegseth would immediately lose his position. The Senate could also vote separately to bar him from holding future federal office.
If acquitted, he would remain in office.
The Republican-controlled House has yet to confirm a final impeachment vote outcome, while Democrats are set to take control of Congress in January following their midterm election victories.
Massie’s resolution could expire when the current Congress ends on January 3, 2027, unless lawmakers act on it before then.
