House Republicans may be gearing up for a potential third front of impeachment proceedings against key figures in the Biden Administration. Representative Matt Rosendale (R-MT) announced on Monday that he intends to introduce one or more articles of impeachment for “high crimes and misdemeanors” against Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin during the upcoming chamber meeting on Tuesday.
In a statement, Rosendale asserted that Austin has repeatedly violated his oath of office, putting the lives of Americans at risk and compromising national security. The congressman referenced the Chinese spy balloon incident from the previous year, claiming that recent reports indicate Austin “lied” about it multiple times. Rosendale also pointed to the Department of Defense’s delayed disclosure of Austin’s hospitalization for undisclosed complications following an elective medical procedure, calling it part of a pattern of dishonesty.
Furthermore, Rosendale criticized Austin for allegedly failing to uphold his oath of office during the chaotic Afghanistan withdrawal, resulting in the death of 13 American soldiers and the influx of unvetted migrants into the United States.
He concluded by stating that Austin is unfit for the role of Secretary of Defense and urged his colleagues to join him in impeaching him to protect the American people.
The call for Austin’s resignation or termination over his secretive hospital stay has been echoed by some GOP lawmakers and former President Donald Trump. Meanwhile, both Democrats and Republicans, including Rosendale, are demanding more transparency. Austin, in a weekend statement, acknowledged his recovery and took responsibility for the disclosure decisions. White House officials reiterated President Joe Biden’s confidence in Austin and anticipated his return to the Pentagon.
Thomas Cooper