The impeachment resolution alleges that Hegseth violated the War Powers Resolution by continuing military operations in Iran without congressional approval and by exceeding the 60-day deadline for withdrawal. It also accuses him of directing unauthorized strikes on drug boats and suppressing free speech. The Constitution allows for the impeachment of “civil Officers of the United States” for “Treason, Bribery, or other high Crimes and Misdemeanours.”

Massie’s articles include charges such as the bombing of an Iranian elementary school that killed at least 156 people, unauthorized strikes on drug boats in the Caribbean and Pacific that killed 243 people, and the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro without congressional approval. The resolution also accuses Hegseth of waging war in Yemen without authorization and retaliating against Senator Mark Kelly for criticizing illegal orders.

Hegseth has dismissed the impeachment effort as a “sham” and defended his record, saying, “This is not about me, but of course the other side, in case you’ve noticed – they’re obsessed.” He has also claimed that the military actions were necessary to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons and to combat narco-terrorism.

Massie, who lost his re-election bid in a Republican primary earlier this year, has long criticized Trump’s Iran war. He introduced the impeachment articles in September but was blocked by House Speaker Mike Johnson. With Democrats now controlling both chambers, Massie said the move is intended to pressure Trump to replace Hegseth before Democratic investigations begin.

The impeachment process requires a majority vote in the House and a two-thirds vote in the Senate to remove Hegseth. While the current Republican-led House is unlikely to pass the measure, Massie said he expects Democratic leadership to pursue similar actions once they take control in January. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries has already expressed support for the impeachment.

He was in charge,” and praised his efforts to boost military recruitment. Hegseth is expected to hold a press conference on Tuesday to further defend his actions.

Law professor Paul Gowder noted that impeachment has become more common in recent years due to political polarization. The move against Hegseth could mark a turning point in how the Trump administration is scrutinized in Congress.