Trump defends Pentagon chief as Massie targets him: ‘Hegseth should be praised, not impeached’

Donald Trump defended Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth after outgoing Republican congressman Thomas Massie moved to impeach him, saying Hegseth should be praised. The dispute comes as Massie warns that Democrats could pursue more extensive hearings and impeachment proceedings if they gain control of Congress next year.

Trump cited military recruitment reaching a record high and what he described as victories in Venezuela and Iran. Hegseth thanked Trump and said they would not back down. Massie, who lost his Republican primary to Trump-backed Ed Gallrein, called his impeachment effort a milder version of what Democrats might pursue; he urged Trump to replace Hegseth while the Senate could still confirm a successor.