Sen. Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) stated on Thursday, November 5, 2026, that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s response to potential impeachment could invite such an action. During an interview on CNN, Gallego, a Marine Corps veteran, described a video released by Hegseth as unprofessional and argued that the Secretary was acting like a media pundit rather than a military leader. The exchange follows a week in which both Democratic and Republican officials cited public opposition to the war in Iran as a primary factor in recent election results.
The dispute follows Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY) stating he intended to introduce articles of impeachment against the Defense Secretary. In a video response posted on Thursday, Hegseth dismissed the move as a partisan effort by a "disgruntled, defeated congressman" and Democratic allies. Hegseth defended the ongoing military operations, describing the war in Iran as a "courageous and historic effort" to prevent the country from obtaining nuclear weapons. He further called for a continued rebuilding of the military, citing the policies of President Donald Trump’s first term.
Gallego told CNN host Jake Tapper that Hegseth has prevented congressional oversight by refusing to provide "the full scope and information" regarding the war. While President Trump has publicly supported Hegseth, The Washington Post reported the administration may be considering the removal of other military officials, including Gen. Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, or Adm. Brad Cooper. Gallego said he was confident House members would support impeachment, but he told Tapper it was "tough" to imagine the Senate would convict.
The political shift is underscored by "blue wave" midterm results, which both parties attributed to the war's unpopularity. The outcome of this impeachment effort will determine whether Hegseth remains the leader of the Department of Defense. If impeachment proceeds, it could affect the flow of information to the public regarding the mission.
A successful impeachment or a forced resignation would set a precedent regarding a cabinet member's rhetoric during active combat operations. It would also signal a shift in the relationship between the executive branch and the legislature concerning war powers. What happens next depends on the formal introduction of impeachment articles by Rep. Massie. No specific dates for these proceedings have been reported, and the Senate’s willingness to hold a trial remains uncertain despite reported frustration among some Republican senators.