Republican Rep. Thomas Massie has filed a privileged resolution to impeach Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, forcing a House vote within two days. This historic move marks the first time a lawmaker has targeted a Cabinet member from their own party with impeachment articles, stemming from a personal feud and Hegseth's campaigning against Massie.
Republican Representative Thomas Massie of Kentucky has launched an effort to impeach Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, filing a privileged resolution that mandates a House vote within two days. Massie accuses Hegseth of 'high crimes and misdemeanors,' citing violations of his constitutional oath and duty, particularly regarding military operations in Iran, Caribbean boat strikes, and free speech disputes. This action is unprecedented, as it's the first time a lawmaker has sought to impeach a Cabinet member from their own party. The move follows an intense personal feud, ignited when Hegseth campaigned against Massie in the Republican primary, leading to Massie's defeat. The vote creates a complex political situation for House Republicans right before the midterm elections, while Democrats, who previously filed their own impeachment resolution against Hegseth, generally prefer formal committee investigations. Pentagon press secretary Kingsley Wilson defended Hegseth, stating that the Department of Defense is stronger and better under his leadership, with improved morale, recruitment, and innovation.
