Hegseth dismisses impeachment push, defends War Department record
US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth dismissed renewed impeachment calls as "political theatre" and vowed to remain in office despite pressure from Republican Congressman Thomas Massie, who threatened to reintroduce articles of impeachment unless Hegseth resigns. Massie issued the warning on November 4, stating resignation was the only condition to halt the impeachment effort. Hegseth defended the Trump administration's military campaign against Iran and urged Congress to approve at least $350 billion in additional defense funding. Hegseth faces criticism from Democratic lawmakers over Iran conflict handling, though Trump has publicly backed him. He urged troops to "ignore the noise" and remain focused on their duties.