Republican Lawmaker Calls to Impeach US Defense Secretary
Republican Representative Thomas Massie has called for the impeachment of US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth. Mr. Massie is a known critic of the war on Iran. He also often speaks out against US military actions in other countries.
On Tuesday, Mr. Massie spoke in the US House of Representatives. He presented articles of impeachment against Secretary Hegseth. Mr. Massie accused the Defense Secretary of starting wars without Congress’s permission. He also said Hegseth allowed unlawful killings. Mr. Massie claimed Secretary Hegseth did not care about civilian deaths during military operations.
Mr. Massie stated that Secretary Hegseth misused his power. He said Hegseth ignored the rules about using military force. He also disregarded laws that guide how wars are fought. Massie believes Hegseth showed a “profound disregard” for how US military actions affect innocent people.
Secretary Hegseth has received criticism for the US-Israel war on Iran. He has also made controversial remarks. He called rules meant to protect civilians “stupid” and “politically correct.” Hegseth said these rules make it harder for the military to do its job.
The resolution to impeach Secretary Hegseth may receive a vote soon. However, it is unlikely to pass. Most members in the Republican-controlled House of Representatives support Hegseth. The Pentagon has also expressed its support for the Secretary.
Pentagon press secretary Kingsley Wilson stated the entire department stands with Secretary Hegseth. Mr. Wilson said they will continue to support American soldiers and the country first.
Most Republicans support the war on Iran. But some, like Mr. Massie, have criticized the Trump administration’s foreign policy. President Donald Trump had promised to reduce US involvement in conflicts worldwide. However, he has disagreed with Mr. Massie’s opposition to the Iran war in the past.
Mr. Massie lost his primary election in May. He faced a challenge from a candidate supported by Mr. Trump. Pro-Israel groups also spent a lot of money against Mr. Massie in that election.
