Secretary of War Pete Hegseth on Tuesday denounced an effort to impeach him over his handling of the war in Iran, calling it a politically motivated attack that would embolden America’s adversaries.
Hegseth defended the Trump administration’s military operations and dismissed the allegations against him as policy disagreements rather than impeachable offenses.
“What one disgruntled and defeated congressman is attempting is not oversight, and it’s not accountability,” Hegseth said. “It’s a political spectacle, a personal manifesto driven by ego and resentment.”
Republican Rep. Thomas Massie of Kentucky introduced eight articles of impeachment Monday, accusing Hegseth of abusing his authority in conducting military operations against Iran without congressional authorization, among other allegations.
The resolution also addresses military operations in Venezuela and Yemen, challenging the administration’s authority to conduct those operations without congressional approval. Other charges include disregarding laws intended to minimize civilian casualties and retaliating against a U.S. senator for protected speech.
Hegseth rejected the accusations, arguing that disagreements over military policy should be addressed through legislation, congressional debate or elections rather than impeachment.
“This is not patriotism. This is sabotage,” he said, warning that the proceedings would hand America’s adversaries a propaganda victory.
Hegseth also defended the Iran war, which several Republicans have blamed for the party’s sweeping losses in last week’s midterm elections.
“I stand behind every one of these operations,” he said. “I was proud to execute them, and I would do it again tomorrow.”
Massie said the House would hold an initial procedural vote Tuesday on whether to dismiss the impeachment resolution. If that effort fails, lawmakers could proceed to debate and vote on the eight articles.
President Donald Trump has defended Hegseth, praising his leadership and criticizing Massie. The president reiterated his support following Tuesday’s briefing.