Massie files eight articles against Hegseth over war powers
The Kentucky Republican accuses the defense chief of bypassing congressional authorization for strikes in the Pacific, Caribbean, and Yemen.
By Robert Ward ·
Congressional oversight of military force has long been a point of contention between the legislative and executive branches. On Nov. 10, Rep. Thomas Massie, R-Ky., introduced eight articles of impeachment against Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.
The 34-page resolution charges Hegseth with high crimes and misdemeanors. It alleges that the cabinet secretary executed military operations abroad without required authorization from Congress. Massie argues that Hegseth bypassed the War Powers Resolution of 1973 by continuing operations after statutory deadlines expired without legislative approval.
The filing cites specific engagements in the Pacific Ocean, Caribbean Sea, and Yemen. It states that maritime strikes on suspect vessels resulted in casualties among unrescued survivors. The document also references operations in Yemen that led to civilian casualties and military action that resulted in the capture of former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.
A central charge asserts that Hegseth initiated war against a foreign nation despite the absence of congressional authorization. The resolution claims no attack upon the United States created a national emergency, and no imminent threat required immediate defensive action. Massie wrote that Hegseth substituted unlawful executive action for the constitutional and statutory judgment of Congress.
The articles also accuse Hegseth of abusing the powers entrusted to him. The draft alleges he retaliated against a member of Congress for constitutionally protected speech. It further claims he attempted to subject a member of a coordinate branch of government to executive branch punishment for exercising legislative and oversight responsibilities.
The resolution faces a divided House floor. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries said Democrats intend to vote in favor of the measure. Massie remains the only Republican publicly advancing the resolution. The filing seeks Hegseth's removal and disqualification from holding future federal office.
Massie concluded that Hegseth acted in a manner grossly incompatible with his duties and the rule of law. The draft states that Hegseth will remain a threat to the Constitution if allowed to remain in office.
