Democratic Lawmakers File Impeachment Articles Against Trump and Hegseth Over Iran Threats

Democratic members of Congress filed articles of impeachment against President Donald Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Tuesday. The filings cite Trump's threats to Iran and military actions in Iran, Venezuela, and international waters against alleged drug-running boats. The proposals accuse Trump of usurping congressional war powers.

Rep. , introduced the impeachment articles against Trump. The articles were drafted by consumer advocate Ralph Nader and constitutional law scholar Bruce Fein. Fein described the war as flagrant unconstitutional in The American Conservative.

“Trump’s attack on Iran in partnership with Israel was not in self-defense. " — Bruce Fein (The American Conservative) Larson stated that Trump has exceeded requirements for removal from office. He noted that the actions in Iran have affected American families and resulted in American lives lost.”

The impeachment articles against Hegseth were introduced by Rep. Debbie Lesko, D-Ariz. Nearly 100 congressional Democrats, including several senators, have called for invoking the 25th Amendment to declare Trump unfit to serve.

The amendment allows the vice president and a majority of the cabinet to initiate this process. At least 87 Democratic members publicly demanded Trump's removal, according to The Independent's review of statements.

On Monday, Trump stated that the entire country could be taken out in one night.

The next morning, he wrote that a whole civilization would die that night if the Strait of Hormuz was not reopened. Less than two hours before a self-imposed deadline on Tuesday, Trump announced a two-week pause in fighting while negotiations with Iran continue. The threats prompted demands from Democrats for the administration to invoke the 25th Amendment.

Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi wrote that Trump's instability is clear and dangerous. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez stated that the United States stands isolated as the world awaits whether America will commit genocide or if the vice president, cabinet, and Congress will end the chaos.

Several right-wing figures, including Alex Jones, Candace Owens, and Marjorie Taylor Greene, also called for invoking the 25th Amendment. Tucker Carlson advised military officials to reject the president's plans. The White House spokesperson called the Democratic efforts pathetic.

The proposals face challenges in the Republican-controlled Congress.

Trump's cabinet consists of members with allegiance to him. Democratic leadership did not call for returning lawmakers to the Capitol to pass a war powers resolution this week. GOP leadership in the House and Senate are unlikely to act on such measures upon return.

Trump was impeached twice in his first administration. He has mentioned potential impeachment if Republicans lose control of both chambers after midterm elections this fall. -Iran relations, potential military escalation, and domestic political divisions.

Affected parties include American families facing higher prices, military personnel, and international allies. Next steps may include continued negotiations or further congressional action depending on developments.