Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) filed a privileged resolution on Sept. 15 to impeach Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth for allegedly conducting military operations in Iran without congressional authorization. The eight articles of impeachment also target Hegseth's actions in Venezuela and Yemen, including a mission to capture Nicolás Maduro. The House tabled the resolution and adjourned early for a seven-week recess ahead of the November midterm elections.

Speaker Mike Johnson dismissed the filing as a "publicity stunt" and stated that the measure would be blocked upon the chamber's return. Senator Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) urged President Donald Trump to replace Hegseth, while Attorney General Todd Blanche maintained that the secretary is doing a "phenomenal job" and has not acted illegally.