Calling impeachment effort a 'political spectacle,' defiant Hegseth blasts lawmakers, saying it puts target on troops

Hegseth rejects impeachment effort

At a press conference, Hegseth dismissed the impeachment resolution as a “political spectacle.” He argued it could put a “target on the backs” of U.S. troops and tell U.S. adversaries Congress might punish military personnel and civilian leaders for lawful operations.

Hegseth said the articles were aimed at service members and described the effort as partisan politics. He accused its supporters of undermining the Constitution and chain of command, and of criminalizing those who carry out lawful orders.

Massie files articles Monday

Hegseth said the case involved policy disagreements, not high crimes, misdemeanors, treason or bribery. He argued that lawmakers should address policy through legislation, debate and the next presidential election.

Trump and Hegseth invoke past

After the articles were introduced, Trump said at a press briefing that Hegseth had “won the war in Iran.” Trump also said Iran would like to make a deal and that its navy and air force had been obliterated. Hegseth compared his possible impeachment to Trump’s two impeachments, saying both efforts failed and Trump returned to the White House. He also criticized the media, accusing it of failing to acknowledge military success because of its opposition to the president.