Outgoing US Lawmaker Reintroduces Impeachment Resolution Against Defence Secretary

Outgoing United States Representative Thomas Massie has introduced a resolution in the House of Representatives to impeach US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. The Kentucky lawmaker presented the articles of impeachment during the first session of the House following the midterm elections.

Massie originally raised eight articles of impeachment against the defense secretary in September. At that time, Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson averted a vote by sending lawmakers home early. During a news conference on Monday, Massie stated he would welcome votes from any representatives wishing to remove Hegseth, regardless of whether they have reviewed the bill's details. He also suggested that the defense secretary should resign before Democrats assume control of Congress in January.

The resolution claims that Hegseth violated the Constitution by participating in military actions against Iran without congressional authorisation, as required by the War Powers Resolution. According to the text read by Massie, the defense secretary fostered a military culture that disregarded rules of engagement and resulted in civilian casualties, specifically citing a bombing at a school in Minab, Iran, in February. Additionally, the resolution alleges that US strikes targeting suspected drug vessels in the Caribbean and Pacific failed to follow mandatory safeguards.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth responded to the resolution by defending his actions and stating he welcomes the opportunity to address Congress. Speaking to reporters, Hegseth dismissed the criticism as politically motivated opposition to successful policies. He stated that he is prepared to discuss the administration's military actions extensively and is scheduled to hold a news conference.

Democratic Party leaders have announced plans to investigate the administration of US President Donald Trump following recent electoral victories in both congressional chambers. Massie predicted that upcoming congressional inquiries will feature testimony from senior administration officials regarding the management of the Defense Department under Hegseth's tenure.