Scott Votes to Impeach Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth

WASHINGTON – Congressman Bobby Scott (VA-03) issued the following statement after voting to advance articles of impeachment against Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth:

“I voted in support of the articles of impeachment against Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, because no administration official is above the law, and Congress has a constitutional responsibility to hold those who abuse their authority accountable. I have voted numerous times to end President Trump’s illegal and disastrous war in Iran. Secretary Hegseth has shown no concern about the illegality of the war. 

“Of particular concern are Articles V and VI of the impeachment resolution. Article V charges Secretary Hegseth with ordering extrajudicial killings of suspected drug traffickers at sea. Drug traffickers should be arrested and prosecuted as lawbreakers, not summarily executed as if they were enemy combatants engaged in military hostilities. Secretary Hegseth has shown no concern about the legality of these executions. 

“Article VI charges Secretary Hegseth with abusing his authority by retaliating against Members of Congress for exercising their constitutionally protected right to free speech when they accurately reminded service members of their legal obligation regarding unlawful military orders. Secretary Hegseth has shown no concern about the Department of Defense using its power to intimidate Members of Congress who are simply stating the law. 

“In addition to the conduct outlined in the articles of impeachment, Secretary Hegseth has violated civil rights by injecting a reprehensible pattern of racial and gender discrimination into personnel decisions. Segregation in the military was abolished in the 1940s, and his opposition to diversity denies qualified racial minorities and women promotions they have rightfully earned.

“Secretary Hegseth’s repeated disregard for Congress’ constitutional authority over matters of war and peace and the rule of law demand accountability. That is why I voted to support these articles of impeachment. Although the resolution did not pass, these serious allegations still need to be addressed.”

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