Eight impeachment articles target Hegseth as Republican lawmaker moves to charge US defense secretary over Iran war
Massie files impeachment articles
Massie, a Kentucky Republican and critic of Trump, introduced the resolution on Monday. It accuses Hegseth of conducting the Iran war without authorization from Congress and abusing his authority as Pentagon chief.
The special procedure Massie chose could bring the measure to a House vote within two days. Republicans still control the chamber, and retain control of Congress until January 3.
Trump and Hegseth respond
Trump defended Hegseth in a telephone interview with Reuters after the filing. He said Hegseth had won two wars and questioned why that would justify impeachment. Hegseth played down reports of the effort against him on Monday. He said he would hold a press conference Tuesday, his first in more than 180 days, and described the war as necessary despite its unpopularity.
Removal faces a higher threshold
A simple House majority is enough to impeach, which means formally bringing charges. The process would then move to a Senate trial. Removing Hegseth would require conviction by two-thirds of senators present. Even with a larger majority next year, Democrats would need substantial Republican support to reach that level.
Key points
- Massie introduced eight articles alleging Hegseth waged war without congressional approval and abused his powers.
- The House could vote on the resolution within two days under Massie's procedure.
- Trump defended Hegseth, while Rep. French Hill said he wanted to hear debate before deciding.
- Removal would require conviction by two-thirds of senators present.