Republicans push impeachment of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth after midterm losses

House Republicans are moving to initiate an impeachment vote against Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, alleging his involvement in persuading President Donald Trump to launch military action against Iran. Sources say the vote could occur as early as next week and may pass with bipartisan Republican support.

Rep. Thomas Massie of Kentucky told CNN he intends to trigger the impeachment proceeding when Congress reconvenes. Several unnamed GOP lawmakers described Hegseth as having promoted an aggressive strategy without a clear exit plan, and they claim the conflict has become a prolonged engagement that contributed to the party’s poor performance in the recent midterm elections.

Vice President JD Vance attributed the electoral setback to the war, though he did not name any individual for blame. A senior Pentagon official said the “pivot is starting” on the war and Hegseth, describing the effort as a “Department of War-led” initiative.

President Donald Trump has expressed continued confidence in Hegseth, telling aides the secretary is “my best guy.” In a recent statement, Trump said he believes Hegseth is “doing a very good job” and reiterated his support for the ongoing military campaign.

The White House, through spokeswoman Lauren Bis, warned that Democratic investigations would be “sham investigations” and characterized them as contrary to American interests.

Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell said Hegseth will not be deterred by partisan attacks and affirmed the department’s commitment to President Trump’s agenda through the end of his term.

While some Republicans suggest Hegseth could become a focal point for Democratic criticism, others, including Massie, argue that the election outcome cannot be blamed on a single issue.