Impeachment: House to Read Accusations Against Pete Hegseth as Leaders Seek to Block Bid

House begins impeachment process
The House is expected to take its first step Tuesday in considering a resolution to impeach Hegseth. Lawmakers will hear the eight articles read aloud before a preliminary vote, which is expected Tuesday evening.
The vote is procedural, not a final decision on impeachment. Republican leaders are expected to seek a way to hold the articles in committee or defeat them, while the measure’s rules set up a final vote as soon as Wednesday.
Hegseth attacks Massie’s motives
Speaking for about half an hour at the Pentagon, Hegseth repeatedly criticized Representative Thomas Massie, the Kentucky Republican who filed the charges. Hegseth described Massie as “one disgruntled guy” accusing him of wrongdoing. Hegseth said the effort undermined service members and could put them at risk. He also rejected allegations that the military had targeted civilians, calling those claims “slander.”
Charges cite military actions
The charges also point to the war with Iran. Hegseth said the military operations were lawful and had been ordered by the commander in chief and himself, with Congress notified.
Senate trial remains uncertain
Conviction and removal would require two-thirds of the Senate, a high threshold. Hegseth predicted impeachment supporters would fail, citing the Senate’s earlier votes not to convict President Trump after his impeachments.
Key points
- The House is set to read eight impeachment articles against Hegseth before a preliminary vote Tuesday.
- Republican leaders are expected to try to shelve or defeat the charges.
- Massie’s articles cite civilian deaths in Yemen, the Eastern Pacific and the Caribbean, as well as the war with Iran.
- A Senate conviction would require a two-thirds vote.

