Trump backs Hegseth as Massie preps new impeachment push
The president defended the defense secretary against a fresh resolution from Rep. Thomas Massie, while acknowledging the war with Iran hurt the GOP in midterms.
By Jenna Mitchell ·
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth faces renewed pressure from the left flank of his own party as President Donald Trump vouched for the secretary's continued tenure on Thursday. The administration's stance comes just days before a new impeachment resolution is expected to hit the House floor.
Trump stated he has "every intention to keep him" in the role, responding to a wave of criticism from constituents and lawmakers. The president admitted to receiving frequent calls from individuals unhappy with Hegseth's performance, though he expressed confusion over the specific complaints he has heard.
The political tension centers on Rep. Thomas Massie, who plans to reintroduce an impeachment resolution against Hegseth on Monday or Tuesday. Massie, who lost his primary earlier this year after Trump endorsed an opponent, believes he can secure enough Republican defectors to pass the measure. In September, Massie spent more than 67 minutes on the House floor reading his 34-page draft, which included eight articles of impeachment.
The resolution argues that Hegseth has acted contrary to his constitutional trust and subverted government. Massie contended that Hegseth remains a threat to civilians, the laws of war, and U.S. diplomacy if he stays in office. The document concludes that Hegseth warrants removal and disqualification from future federal positions.
Trump characterized Massie as a "very bad guy" and a "destructive" force in politics. The president also noted that it would be procedurally easier to confirm a replacement for Hegseth before Democrats take control of Congress in January. Democrats have signaled they will use their new majority to investigate the defense secretary.
Speculation persists that Hegseth may run for the Tennessee Senate seat vacated by Marsha Blackburn. Trump predicted Hegseth would be "very popular" in the state, despite acknowledging that the war with Iran contributed to Republicans' sweeping losses in the midterms.
The president also indicated that he expects to meet with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries at the White House. Trump said he has not yet spoken with the two leaders but has talked with other unnamed Democrats who are reaching out for dialogue. He described these other Democrats as friends and suggested that cooperation is beneficial for the country.
