Eight charges target Hegseth as Massie moves for impeachment; Trump defends him
Eight charges in the resolution
The other listed allegations concern “extrajudicial killings” in strikes on alleged drug boats in the Caribbean Sea and Eastern Pacific Ocean, and Maduro’s capture without congressional authorization. The article does not detail the remaining charges.
Trump backs the defense secretary
Hegseth rejected Massie’s effort in a video released last Thursday, calling the impeachment articles a “sham.” He said the effort had failed against Trump and would fail against him. At an impromptu briefing on Monday, Trump expressed support for Hegseth. “I’ll stand by him,” Trump said, adding that Hegseth “was in charge” and that “we all won.”
A long-running political dispute
Massie has been a persistent critic of Hegseth. During the Republican primary, Hegseth campaigned for Ed Gallrein, who later defeated Massie. After Hegseth called him a “disgruntled defeated congressman,” Massie told reporters he was defeated but not disgruntled. He characterized impeachment as a way to remove someone from office, rather than impose prison or a fine.
War powers at issue
Massie said his effort also highlights whether Congress has meaningful authority over decisions to wage war. The article says presidents of both parties have largely ignored the War Powers Resolution.
Key points
- Massie’s resolution lists eight impeachment charges against Hegseth.
- The House is expected to vote within two days.
- Trump said he would stand by Hegseth.
- Massie says the effort raises questions about Congress’s war powers.