Hegseth takes aim at Massie for pushing a motion of no confidence against him: 'He's trying to do damage to this country'

Secretary of War Pete Hegseth took a harsh swipe at his fellow party member Thomas Massie for having pushed a motion of no confidence against him, calling the decision a "political spectacle."

Hegseth said at a press conference held on Tuesday that this censure resolution sponsored by the Republican representative from Kentucky (who will not be seeking reelection) does not address "felonies, misdemeanors, treason, or bribery," but rather "disagreement over policy."

"What one disgruntled and defeated congressman is attempting is not oversight, it's not accountability. It's a political spectacle, a personal manifesto driven by ego and resentment," said Secretary Guerra.

"Time for one man's final days in Congress to try to do damage to this president, this country and most irresponsibly, the warriors who defend it. It's a farce, and it's a stunt, and everybody knows it," he added.

Accused of violating the Constitution

On Monday, Massie officially filed articles of impeachment against Hegseth, whom he accused of violating the Constitution and federal laws in the performance of his duties.

Specifically, the Republican representative focused his accusations the conduct of the war against Iran carried out by the Pentagon's top official.

Shortly after the motion of censure was introduced, President Donald Trump came to Hegseth's defense, while lashing out at Massie, calling him an "absolute loser."

"He's a sick guy, a very sick guy. Actually, there's something wrong with him. Now he's going after Pete Hegseth. He doesn't like Hegseth, but really, what has Hegseth done?" Trump said.

"Massie is a loser, an absolute loser," the president declared.

This is not the first time the Republican congressman from Kentucky has pursued a similar process against Hegseth. In September, Massie introduced a virtually identical resolution, but House Speaker Mike Johnson adjourned the session before it could be put to a vote.

What does it take to remove Hegseth from office?

To pass an impeachment against a cabinet member, one must first secure a simple majority in the House of Representatives, where Republicans currently hold a slim lead of 218 to 214. Starting in January 2027, Democrats will have a comfortable majority, the largest since 2020.

If approved by the House, it will go to the Senate, where two-thirds of the senators present, that is, 67 votes if all 100 are present.