US Congressman Moves to Impeach Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth Over Iran War

Republican Congressman Thomas Massie has introduced articles of impeachment against US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, accusing him of violating the Constitution by engaging in hostilities in Iran for more than 90 days without congressional authorisation.

Massie formally presented the resolution on the House floor on Monday, setting a 48-hour period for lawmakers to consider the measure. The House could vote on it directly, refer it to a committee or set it aside.

Although the impeachment effort is expected to face an uphill battle, Massie said his intention was to pressure President Donald Trump to replace Hegseth before Democrats take control of Congress in January.

Hegseth Dismisses Impeachment Effort

Hegseth has described the move as a "sham" and defended his leadership of the Defence Department, insisting that the attacks against him would not affect his work.

"You see, they attack me. They attack us because we are effective," he said in a video statement last week, adding that he and his team would not back down.

He also criticised Massie, describing him as a "disgruntled, defeated congressman", while saying he was not concerned about the impeachment proceedings.

Trump has also indicated that he intends to retain Hegseth, praising his leadership and defending his handling of the Iran conflict. The president said on Monday that Hegseth had done a very good job and highlighted recruitment figures under his leadership.

Massie Wants Trump to Replace Hegseth

Massie, a Kentucky Republican who lost his re-election bid earlier this year, said the impeachment effort was intended to prevent Democrats from launching a more extensive process when they assume control of Congress.

He first introduced impeachment articles against Hegseth in September and revived the move following the midterm elections, which saw Republicans lose control of both the House and Senate.

Massie said he hoped Trump would appoint a replacement while Republicans still control the Senate, allowing the nominee to be confirmed before Democrats take over.

Democratic leaders have indicated they may support an impeachment effort against Hegseth once they assume control in January.

Impeachment Faces High Political Hurdles

Impeaching a cabinet secretary is rare in American history. The House must approve articles of impeachment before the Senate conducts a trial to determine whether the official should be convicted and removed from office.

The House requires a simple majority to approve impeachment, while conviction in the Senate requires a two-thirds majority. The threshold makes removal difficult, particularly given the current political composition of Congress.

There are currently 218 Republicans and 214 Democrats in the House. Massie acknowledged that he was uncertain whether his resolution had enough support, as it would likely require some Republicans to vote in favour despite the party's narrow majority.

However, Professor Peter Loge of George Washington University suggested that the tight numbers could work in Massie's favour if some Republican lawmakers chose not to attend the vote.

Political and legal experts say impeachment proceedings have become more common amid growing political polarisation in the United States, although removing a cabinet secretary through the process remains highly unusual.

BBC News