Pete Hegseth Survives Impeachment Push, But Democrats Could Revive Charges In January

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has survived an impeachment attempt over his handling of the Iran war, after Republicans in the House of Representatives blocked the immediate move to bring charges against him. However, the reprieve could be temporary, with Democrats preparing to revive the effort when they take control of Congress in January.

The House voted 211-204 on Tuesday (November 10) to refer eight articles of impeachment introduced by Republican Representative Thomas Massie to the House Judiciary Committee. The procedural move stalled a planned vote on formally impeaching Hegseth. Massie was the only Republican to oppose the referral, while 11 Democrats did not vote.

The eight articles accuse Hegseth of exceeding his authority, conducting military operations without congressional authorisation and abusing his office. Three charges concern the US war against Iran and alleged violations of the War Powers Resolution, which limits the president's ability to keep American forces involved in hostilities without congressional approval. Other allegations involve disregarding civilian protection laws, extrajudicial killings during strikes on suspected drug boats in the Caribbean and Pacific, retaliating against Senator Mark Kelly over a video concerning illegal military orders, the alleged kidnapping of former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, and waging an unlawful war in Yemen.

Hegseth rejected the allegations, calling the impeachment effort a political stunt and insisting he had no intention of resigning. Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell described the House decision as a "TOTAL VICTORY", while President Donald Trump gave his defence secretary an emphatic endorsement, writing that he deserved an "A" PLUS, PLUS, PLUS. Vice President JD Vance also said Hegseth had not committed impeachable offences.

However, surviving the procedural vote does not amount to acquittal. Under the US Constitution, impeachment begins in the House, where a simple majority must approve the charges. The Senate then conducts a trial, with House members acting as prosecutors and senators serving as jurors. Conviction requires a two-thirds majority of senators present and results in removal from office.

Hegseth could face renewed pressure when the new Congress convenes on January 3. Democrats, who won control of both chambers in the midterm elections, have signalled plans to pursue impeachment and extensive investigations into the Pentagon.

House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries has backed impeachment, accusing Hegseth of undermining national security and orchestrating a reckless war with Iran. Representative Mike Quigley also vowed that impeachment would happen, while Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez warned of multiple investigations and subpoenas.

For now, Trump has protected his defence secretary. But with Democrats preparing to exercise their congressional majority, Hegseth's political future remains uncertain.