Hegseth calls impeachment push a 'political spectacle' as House vote looms

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth condemned an impeachment effort against him as a "political spectacle" driven by ego and resentment, vowing to fight the challenge during his first press briefing in six months. The impeachment resolution, filed Monday by outgoing Republican Rep. Thomas Massie, focuses on Hegseth's handling of the war against Iran and other military actions, which Massie calls "high crimes and misdemeanors." A House vote could come by midweek, pressuring Republicans after their midterm losses, though Hegseth argues no defense secretary has ever been impeached for lawful operations. President Trump has backed Hegseth, citing successes like the capture of Venezuela's former president, while critics point to ongoing Iranian strikes and shipping disruptions that have raised oil prices. Hegseth and his supporters have dismissed the effort as politically motivated, with the Pentagon spokesman calling it a "sham witch hunt."