Massie to Force House Vote on Hegseth Impeachment Articles

Massie’s eight articles allege misconduct including violations of the War Powers Resolution of 1973. The law limits the president’s authority to send US forces into combat without a declaration of war, specific statutory authorization or a national emergency created by an attack on the United States, its territories, possessions or armed forces.

Massie also accused Hegseth of dismantling rules of engagement intended to reduce civilian casualties. He linked those changes to a US strike on Shajareh Tayyebeh Elementary School in Minab, Iran. Massie cited reported death tolls of at least 156 civilians, with some accounts putting the figure above 170. He said those killed included at least 120 children, 26 teachers and seven parents trying to evacuate their children, as well as a school bus driver, a pharmacy technician from a nearby clinic and the unborn six-month-old child of a teacher killed in the attack.

The congressman further alleged that Hegseth ordered military strikes on suspected drug-trafficking vessels that resulted in the “summary execution of at least 243 persons in international waters.” Massie said Hegseth had acted against his obligations as defense secretary and posed a threat to the Constitution, arguing that he should be impeached, removed and barred from future federal office.

A vote on Massie’s resolution is expected Wednesday.