Hegseth Dismisses Impeachment Charges as Political Stunt Backed by Trump

Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth dismissed impeachment charges filed against him as a political stunt, calling them "a farce" driven by "ego and resentment," while President Trump stands by him. Outgoing Republican Congressman Thomas Massie filed the charges Monday, accusing Hegseth of illegally launching war against Iran without approval, endangering troops, and killing hundreds of civilians. Hegseth argued the effort is revenge from Massie, who lost his primary to a Trump-backed challenger. Hegseth claimed the charges lack constitutional basis, representing policy disagreements rather than high crimes, and warned the effort empowers adversaries by punishing lawful military operations. He stated he was following orders from the commander-in-chief.