This week, Rep. Haley Stevens (D-Mich.) took a significant step by filing articles of impeachment against Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. The charges focus primarily on his attempts to roll back public health measures, raising concerns about the implications for public health and safety across the nation.
In a related development, Rep. Shri Thanedar (D-Mich.) recently filed articles of impeachment against Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. This action stems from the ongoing controversy known as Signalgate and reports of a double-tap strike on an alleged Venezuelan drug boat in the Caribbean. These allegations have sparked significant debate regarding military engagement and accountability.
Driving the news further, Rep. Ramirez has sent a letter to Judiciary Committee chair Jim Jordan (R-Ohio) and ranking member Jamie Raskin (D-Md.) demanding a thorough investigation into Secretary Noem's purportedly unlawful and potentially impeachable actions. The letter accuses Noem of unethical behavior, specifically citing reports that a firm associated with the DHS Secretary reportedly received funds from the DHS. Additionally, it highlights the Coast Guard's expenditure of $172 million to acquire two private jets for her use.
The accusations extend to claims that Secretary Noem made false and misleading statements to Congress about the operations of DHS and ICE. Furthermore, she is accused of undermining the separation of powers by disregarding court orders. Rep. Ramirez stated, “Secretary Noem has established a clear pattern of lawless behavior, mirrored in the conduct of her leadership team,” asserting that these actions constitute a violation of her oath of office.
In response to the allegations, a DHS spokesperson criticized Rep. Ramirez, suggesting that she is more concerned with showmanship than substantive policy work. The spokesperson emphasized the department’s commitment to protecting the American people under Secretary Noem’s leadership, stating, “We hope she would get serious about doing her job.”
As the situation develops, it appears that Republicans are unlikely to support Rep. Ramirez’s impeachment request. A spokesperson for Jim Jordan described the letter as “the most ridiculous and toothless letter ever written.” Meanwhile, a spokesperson for Jamie Raskin declined to comment immediately on the matter, and the DHS has not yet responded to requests for further comments.
This ongoing saga underscores the contentious political climate surrounding public health and national defense, as well as the scrutiny that high-ranking officials face in their respective roles.
Editor’s note: This story has been updated with additional reporting.