From The Boston Globe · · 2m
Pete Hegseth Faces Impeachment Threat After Naval War College Speech
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's speech at the Naval War College sparks impeachment calls as Democrats prepare to impeach him.
In brief
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's speech at the Naval War College sparks impeachment calls as Democrats prepare to impeach him. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth faces potential impeachment after criticizing military education and Iran war policies. Originally reported by The Boston Globe.
Hegseth's Naval War College Speech
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth lectured faculty and students at Newport’s Naval War College on Monday, criticizing 'toxic and destructive ideas' from DEI and gender to 'ideological' concepts.
“There are those who believe that they can hide behind academic, civilian academic tenure, and regional accreditation mandates to wait out President Trump’s term in office”
33 Directives for Military Reforms
Hegseth announced 33 directives to overhaul war colleges, removing 'destructive ideologies' and promoting a 'resolute warrior ethos' while cutting civilian academic influence.
Impeachment Calls Emerge
Protesters on Newport’s shores held signs saying 'Fire Hegseth' and 'War criminal' as some raised middle fingers during his motorcade.
Veteran Criticizes Hegseth
Mark Donahue, a 67-year-old Navy veteran and former Naval War College instructor, called Hegseth 'a clown' and said the military has become 'a laughing stock.'
“We re murdering people on the high seas”
Opposition from Rhode Island Senators
Rhode Island Democratic senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse opposed Hegseth’s nomination, calling him 'the least qualified nominee for Secretary of Defense in modern history.'
“He lacks the requisite character, competence, and commitment to do this job”
Trump Defends Hegseth
President Trump defended Hegseth, saying he 'won two wars' and saved the Middle East and Israel, making impeachment 'awfully hard' to justify.
“He s guilty of two things, basically winning two wars”
Impeachment Resolution Expected
Democrats plan to support impeachment articles, with House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries calling Hegseth 'abused his power, undermined national security, and engineered a reckless war of choice in Iran.'
Senate Conviction Threshold
A two-thirds Senate majority would be needed for Hegseth’s removal, making conviction unlikely despite House impeachment.
Accident Involving Trooper
A Rhode Island State Police officer was involved in a minor accident with Hegseth’s motorcade but is in stable condition and 'going to be fine.'
“The officer is in stable condition and is going to be fine”
Critique of War College Partnerships
Hegseth ended a partnership with Brown University, calling it 'the only place more stridently ideological in one direction, more than columbia or harvard.'
“The only place more stridently ideological in one direction, more than columbia or harvard”
Military Education Reforms
Hegseth’s 33 directives replace '80-page theoretical written theses' with 'competitive ai-assisted war gaming and high-stress decision-forcing scenarios.'
The bottom line
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth faces potential impeachment after criticizing military education and Iran war policies.
