US Representative Thomas Massie Pursues Impeachment Bid Against Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth

United States Representative Thomas Massie, a Republican from Kentucky, reintroduced articles of impeachment on Monday against Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. Massie alleged that the Pentagon chief committed high crimes and misdemeanors, abused the power of his office, violated the War Powers Resolution, and conducted military operations and unlawful actions across multiple countries without congressional authorization.

The filing coincided with the return of Congress to Washington, D.C., for a lame-duck session following midterm elections that resulted in major losses for the Republican Party. Defense Secretary Hegseth faces political backlash over the United States' war with Iran, a conflict that some prominent Republicans and President Donald Trump have cited as a factor in the election outcome.

Addressing the House floor, Massie stated that Hegseth executed unlawful orders to initiate war against a foreign nation despite the absence of a declaration of war, statutory authorization, or a national emergency. The Kentucky Republican argued that Hegseth remains a threat to the Constitution and that his actions warrant impeachment, trial, removal from office, and disqualification from holding future public office.

President Trump voiced support for the defense secretary, posting on Truth Social that Hegseth should be praised rather than impeached and describing him as a successful military official. In a separate White House press conference with CNN, Trump stated he would stand by Hegseth and asserted that Massie harbored personal animosity.

Hegseth responded on Monday by stating he is unconcerned by the impeachment efforts and would address the topic at a Tuesday morning press conference at the Pentagon, marking his first such briefing in six months. Massie previously introduced articles of impeachment in September, though a scheduled vote was delayed when House Speaker Mike Johnson canceled the final voting day before the midterm recess.

While it remains uncertain whether the resolution will succeed in the Republican-controlled House, Massie expressed confidence to ABC News that enough Republican members would defect to secure the simple majority required for passage alongside Democratic votes. A vote could occur as early as this week, and President Trump has maintained that he is not currently considering replacing his Pentagon chief.