Rep. Thomas Massie is introducing articles of impeachment against Secretary of War Pete Hegseth on the House floor, alleging that Hegseth’s conduct constitutes “high crimes and misdemeanors” and escalating his opposition to the Trump administration’s Pentagon leadership.

Massie, a Kentucky Republican, has previously backed efforts to hold Hegseth accountable over the Defense Department’s conduct and has faced Hegseth’s public criticism. Hegseth accused Massie of “constant obstruction” earlier this year as the two Republicans became involved in an increasingly public political dispute.

The impeachment effort comes as Hegseth faces continued scrutiny over his management of the Pentagon. Recent reporting has focused on changes to senior military leadership, disputes over personnel decisions and questions surrounding the administration’s handling of ongoing military operations. Hegseth has defended his leadership and the administration’s policies.

Massie has been a frequent critic of the Trump administration on several issues, including military policy. The congressman also became a prominent figure in congressional efforts involving the release of government records, putting him at odds with President Donald Trump and other administration officials.

The impeachment articles now place Hegseth under another form of congressional scrutiny. Introducing articles of impeachment does not itself remove a Cabinet secretary from office. The House would have to approve articles before any matter could proceed to the Senate, where a conviction would require a two-thirds vote.

Massie is also introducing the articles as a lame-duck member of Congress after losing the Republican primary for his Kentucky House seat in May. Ed Gallrein, a Trump-backed challenger, defeated Massie in the GOP primary, ending Massie’s bid for another term in the House. Hegseth had campaigned for Gallrein shortly before the primary.

The effort also comes after Democrats previously introduced their own articles of impeachment against Hegseth. Rep. Shri Thanedar introduced articles in December 2025, followed by Rep. Yassamin Ansari in April 2026.