Massie Targets Hegseth With New Impeachment Push

The U.S. House of Representatives resumed its session on Monday, November 9, 2026, with an immediate procedural conflict over Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) introduced eight articles of impeachment against the defense chief, marking the first major legislative action of the new term following the midterm elections.

While Massie referenced Hegseth’s involvement in military operations in Venezuela and Yemen, the resolution primarily targets the war with Iran. During a press conference outside the Capitol, Massie clarified that the articles do not claim Hegseth was ineffective at his duties. Instead, he argued that Hegseth violated the Constitution and broke laws, specifically noting his role in what Massie described as extrajudicial killings and the death of schoolchildren in Iran.

This is not the first time Massie has attempted to remove Hegseth from office. In September 2026, he introduced a similar measure, but House Speaker Mike Johnson sent members home early to prevent a floor vote. Massie is now urging Johnson to bring the new resolution to the floor, noting that Republicans still hold the majority and can choose to act. He stated, “They can still do the right thing.”

Democratic leaders have signaled strong support for the effort. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries called himself a “hard yes” on the vote. Jeffries accused Hegseth of abusing his power and undermining national security, labeling him the architect of a reckless and costly war of choice in Iran.

President Donald Trump reacted to the move during an impromptu White House briefing on Monday. He expressed confidence in Hegseth and urged Congress to follow suit. Trump dismissed Massie as a “stone-cold loser” and criticized him for consuming the time of both the House and the Senate.

Hegseth is scheduled to hold a press briefing at the Pentagon on Tuesday, November 10, 2026. This event will mark his first public address in more than 180 days. Massie, who was defeated in May by Trump-endorsed primary challenger Ed Gallrein, remains a prominent critic of the administration's war strategy.

The resolution now sits in the House, pending a decision by Speaker Johnson on whether to schedule a debate and vote. If a vote occurs, the support from Democratic leaders ensures a coalition that could challenge the current leadership's control over the legislative calendar.