Trump defends Hegseth and attacks Republican congressman

President Trump defended Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth amid impeachment proceedings initiated by Congressman Thomas Massie, labeling Massie a "total failure." Hegseth argued that the impeachment is a political stunt. Vice President JD Vance supported Hegseth, claiming he committed no impeachable offenses and criticized Congress for resorting to impeachment instead of policymaking. Vance suggested that frustrations stem from Hegseth's military decisions, including troop repositioning away from Europe and the ongoing conflict in Iran. Massie's resolution accuses Hegseth of violating laws regarding military engagement and civilian casualties, particularly referencing a bombing in Iran that killed children. Hegseth's leadership has also faced scrutiny for extrajudicial actions against alleged drug traffickers and the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.