WASHINGTON — Secretary of War Pete Hegseth is pushing back forcefully against efforts to impeach him, insisting that he will not retreat under pressure.
The House is expected to vote next week on an impeachment resolution introduced in September by outgoing libertarian-leaning Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.), when lawmakers return to session.
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“Just like the president, we don’t back down. And that especially applies now,” Hegseth said in a nearly six-minute video message recorded outside the Department of War.
“This is not about me, but of course, the other side — in case you’ve noticed — they’re obsessed,” Hegseth said. “A disgruntled, defeated congressman, along with all his Democrat allies, has also dropped sham articles of impeachment against yours truly, just like they tried against President Trump twice.”
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Hegseth had campaigned against Massie during the primary, an unusual intervention by a Pentagon chief. Massie has defended his impeachment effort by pointing to Hegseth’s role in the war in Iran.
Several Democrats have also indicated that they could pursue Hegseth’s impeachment if they return to power next year with one of the largest House majorities since at least 2008.
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Speculation has also circulated that Hegseth might resign and be appointed by Tennessee Gov.-elect Marsha Blackburn to fill the Senate seat she will soon vacate. Hegseth’s close allies have rejected those reports.
In the video, the secretary of war also urged lawmakers to approve additional funding for the Department of War.
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.
