Why does Pete Hegseth call himself secretary of war? ‘Dopey but dangerous’ wouldn’t fit on a badge
He has survived blame for the US midterms disaster and dodged an impeachment vote, but it will be one battle after another now – and he can’t win them all
TL;DR
- Pete Hegseth, US secretary of defense, calls himself secretary of war.
- He faced an impeachment vote led by Republican congressman Thomas Massie, accused of illegal acts including an unauthorized war with Iran and effecting regime change in Venezuela.
- Republicans narrowly voted down the impeachment, rallying to Hegseth's defense.
- Hegseth has been blamed for Republican losses in the midterms, with speculation focusing on his role in the Iran war.
- His persona is described as 'dopey' but dangerous, fitting Trump's preferred 1950s aesthetic for a defense secretary.
- Hegseth's military rank was major, and his influence is seen as stemming from his media appearances rather than direct military leadership.
- Democrats are expected to attempt impeachment again in January when they gain a majority in both chambers.