Hegseth Calls Out Critics as He Seeks $350 Billion for Trump's Military Agenda

War Secretary Pete Hegseth is challenging Congress to deliver at least $350 billion in additional defense funding while dismissing a growing impeachment effort against him as political theater.

In a video posted to X on Thursday, according to Fox News, Hegseth defended his overhaul of the Pentagon and urged lawmakers to support a reconciliation package aimed at expanding America's military capabilities and strengthening its defense industrial base.

"We need every vote from every patriotic member of Congress," Hegseth said.

The funding request comes as Hegseth faces an impeachment effort led by Rep. Thomas Massie, R-Ky. Massie introduced eight articles of impeachment against the war secretary in September, accusing him of violating congressional war powers during the conflict with Iran and abusing his authority in other military operations.

Massie, who lost his Republican primary in May, plans to revive the effort when Congress returns next week. The House has not voted on the articles.

Hegseth dismissed the allegations as politically motivated, taking direct aim at Massie and Democrats supporting the effort.

"A disgruntled, defeated congressman along with all his Democrat allies has also dropped sham articles of impeachment against yours truly," Hegseth said.

President Donald Trump also weighed in Thursday, telling ABC News that he intends to keep Hegseth in his Cabinet despite the impeachment push.

Much of Hegseth's video focused on defending the Trump administration's changes at the Pentagon. Those efforts have included eliminating diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives, removing military leaders and attempting to reverse declining recruitment numbers.

Hegseth accused former President Joe Biden and former Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin of leaving the military in poor condition, arguing that the current administration has been forced to rebuild the institution.

"We ended the weird and the woke and elevated patriots in strength," he said.

He also defended U.S. military operations against Iran, describing the campaign as a historic effort to prevent Tehran from obtaining nuclear weapons.

Hegseth ended his remarks by addressing American service members directly, urging them not to become distracted by the political battles unfolding in Washington.

"Don't blink. Ignore the noise. Never hesitate," he said.

"We will not back down. We put America and the warfighter first, always and without apology."