Trump says he has 'every intention' to keep Hegseth

President Donald Trump expressed his intention to retain Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth in his position, despite an impeachment resolution being prepared by Republican Rep. Thomas Massie. Trump stated that he has "every intention" to keep Hegseth, acknowledging that he has received calls from individuals unhappy with the defense secretary's performance. However, Trump admitted to being puzzled by the reasons behind these criticisms.

The speculation surrounding Hegseth's potential candidacy for the soon-to-be vacated Tennessee Senate seat held by Republican Senator Marsha Blackburn was addressed by Trump, who predicted that Hegseth would be "very popular" in the state. The president also pointed out the impact of the ongoing war with Iran on Republicans' recent midterm losses, suggesting that it would be more feasible to confirm a replacement for Hegseth before Democrats assume control in January.

Massie announced his plan to introduce the impeachment resolution against Hegseth on Monday or Tuesday, believing that there would be enough Republican defections to pass the measure. Massie criticized Hegseth for acting in a way that contravenes his trust as Secretary of Defense and undermines constitutional government, causing harm to civilians and the laws of war, and the integrity of U.S. diplomacy and the Constitution. If allowed to remain in office, Massie argued that Hegseth poses a threat to the United States.

Despite the impeachment efforts, Trump dismissed Rep. Massie as a "very bad guy" and claimed that the president and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, along with House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, would visit the White House in the future. Trump also mentioned speaking with other Democrats, expressing the desire for better relations between the two parties for the country's benefit.