US Pentagon chief Hegseth faces impeachment push over Iran war
Republican lawmaker Thomas Massie has introduced eight articles of impeachment against US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth over the Iran war, accusing him of conducting it illegally without congressional authorization.
The Kentucky congressman is using a special procedure that could see the House vote on the resolution within two days, with the legislative chamber still dominated by Republicans. Trump defended his defense secretary, telling reporters at the White House that Hegseth had done a "good job" and had "won" wars in Venezuela and Iran.
I'll stand by him... He won two wars. He was in charge.
Hegseth's Response
Earlier on Monday, Hegseth sought to downplay rumors about the push against him. He told reporters that his team is not worried about the noise and announced he would hold a press conference Tuesday—his first in more than 180 days—defending the war as necessary, even if unpopular.
Political Support
Democratic House leader Hakeem Jeffries backed the effort Sunday, stating he was a "hard yes on the Hegseth resolution" and that "Pete Hegseth has got to go." Some Republicans have signaled they might support the charges, with Arkansas congressman French Hill saying he wanted to hear the debate before deciding.
Pete Hegseth has got to go.
Political Context
The push follows Democrats' victories in both chambers of Congress in last week's midterm elections amid anger over the Iran war and soaring fuel prices. Republicans retain control until January 3. Impeachment requires a simple majority in the House and amounts to bringing formal charges, while removal would require a Senate trial and conviction by two-thirds of senators present.
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