Democratic congressional candidate Cait Conley, an Army combat veteran, stated Sunday that she would support impeaching Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth, whom she described as a "hazard to American national security" and "a disgrace to the office."
Conley, who is challenging Republican Rep. Mike Lawler in New York's 17th Congressional District, made the remarks during an appearance on CNN's "State of the Union." When asked if she would support removing Hegseth from office, Conley responded, "I believe he has been a hazard to American national security and a disgrace to the office. I would absolutely support removing him from office because his actions and decisions are failing service members who have sworn an oath to this country and deserve respect."
Pressed by the interviewer to clarify if "removing" meant voting for impeachment articles, Conley affirmed, "Against Pete Hegseth for his failure to protect America? Yes."
Conley's statement drew a swift response from the Lawler campaign. Ciro Riccardi, Lawler's campaign manager, criticized Conley's position, linking it to broader criticisms of her campaign and her stance on other political issues.
"Cait Conley’s refusal to disavow Zohran Mamdani and the DSA is disqualifying. She is just as extreme as the rest and that was exposed today for all to see, including embracing impeachment," Riccardi stated.
This is not the first time Hegseth has faced impeachment calls. House Democrats previously introduced six articles of impeachment against him, citing his handling of military operations, use of encrypted communication applications, and congressional oversight matters.
Pentagon press secretary Kingsley Wilson dismissed those earlier efforts, stating that Hegseth remained focused on the department's mission and that the impeachment calls were a distraction. "Secretary Hegseth will continue to protect the homeland and project peace through strength. This is just another charade in an attempt to distract the American people from the major successes we have had here at the Department of War," Wilson said in April.
Hegseth has previously pushed back against criticism of his leadership, attributing negative reports to disgruntled former employees and media efforts to damage his reputation.
In recent weeks, pressure on Hegseth has extended across party lines. Outgoing Sen. Thom Tillis, R-N.C., publicly urged President Donald Trump to replace Hegseth following the resignation of Army Secretary Dan Driscoll. Tillis expressed a desire for a leader "who will retain and empower our military talent rather than diminish it."
The White House, however, reaffirmed President Trump's support for Hegseth. White House spokeswoman Anna Kelly stated, "The President has complete trust in Secretary Hegseth, who is doing an incredible job leading the Pentagon."
Driscoll's departure was reportedly linked to tensions with Hegseth regarding Army leadership and modernization efforts. While a source suggested Driscoll had concerns about Hegseth hindering transformation efforts, Driscoll publicly praised Hegseth's support upon his exit.
