Republican Representative Thomas Massie filed eight articles of impeachment against US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth in Washington on September 15, accusing him of abusing his authority in the Iran war. Reuters and Massie’s office reported the move, which brings a challenge to a senior Trump administration official from within the president’s own party.
According to Massie’s official release, three articles allege breaches of the 1973 War Powers Resolution. He argues that Hegseth continued hostilities without congressional authorization for more than 90 days and disregarded lawmakers’ direction to withdraw. These are allegations in an impeachment proposal, rather than findings by a court.
The other five articles, his office said, concern civilian protections, lethal attacks on suspected drug traffickers, alleged retaliation against Senator Mark Kelly over his speech, the seizure of Nicolás Maduro and Cilia Flores in Venezuela, and military operations in Yemen. Massie read his accusations on the House floor, NPR reported.
The Pentagon defended Hegseth. Spokesperson Kingsley Wilson said the department supported his leadership and would continue prioritizing American troops and the country, according to Reuters. NPR reported that the administration maintains the Iran conflict was necessary to prevent Tehran from acquiring a nuclear weapon.
Reuters assessed the resolution as unlikely to pass, but said it could expose Republican divisions before the November 3 midterm elections. Massie is not seeking reelection after losing his primary to a Trump-backed challenger. NPR noted that Republicans have enough votes in principle to defeat the proposal, although the decision could be difficult for members in competitive districts.
Reuters reported that the resolution’s privileged status requires House action within two legislative days. Leaders could seek a vote to set it aside, according to Axios. NPR said lawmakers must act by Thursday before an extended recess lasting until after the midterms. The next step is therefore a procedural and political test in the House, with no impeachment outcome yet established.
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