Rep. Thomas Massie has reintroduced articles of impeachment against Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth for ordering military strikes without Congress approval. This move comes just as the political landscape shifts following the November 3 congressional elections. Massie stated, "I think it's more likely to pass after the election than before the election," according to the New York Post. He filed the charges on Monday, forcing House leaders to schedule a vote within two days.
Massie brings eight specific charges against the Secretary of Defense. The first article alleges Hegseth waged the Iran war without a declaration of war or statutory authorization. Massie said the measure "establishes that the war was unlawful from its inception," per NBC News. The other charges cover operations in Yemen and Venezuela, including the capture of former dictator Nicolas Maduro. One charge also cites efforts to suppress free speech regarding Senator Mark Kelly.
Massie argues these actions violate the 1973 War Powers Resolution. This law requires the President to notify Congress within two days of using military force. Within 60 days, the President must cease armed force usage if Congress fails to approve. The Washington Examiner reports that Massie highlights how Hegseth pursued a culture of "maximum lethality" that led to civilian deaths. Hegseth's conduct, according to his claims, was "grossly incompatible with his duties and the rule of law."
A five-seat majority in the House is currently held by Republicans. However, the political tide has turned with Democrats taking back control of both chambers. At year's end, Massie, who has long criticized the administration, leaves Congress. Despite this, he is forcing a floor vote as early as Wednesday. The New York Post notes this is one of the first legislative actions since the election results came in.
House rules allow Republican leaders to make a motion to kill the resolution. Such a move would require a simple majority vote to stop the process. If the motion fails, the articles go to a full vote on the House floor. Hegseth has refused to step down and plans to serve through the end of the term. On the tarmac, he informed reporters that critics are "taking issue with the troops and what they accomplished."
The core issue here is who holds the power to declare war. Article 1 of the Constitution gives that power to Congress, not the President. The last time Congress formally declared war was during World War II. Massie believes the executive branch has overstepped its bounds repeatedly. He stated Hegseth "has acted in a manner contrary to his trust as secretary of defense," according to NBC News. This is not just a policy dispute; it is a test of constitutional limits.
Hegseth argues that these are partisan political games played against the President. He claims "Everybody in the military knows that," the Washington Examiner reported. Seemingly, the incoming Congress prepares to retake war declaration authority. Massie's timing is deliberate, aiming to force the issue before the new session begins. The clock is now ticking for House leaders to decide if they will block the vote or let it proceed.
