Hegseth avoids impeachment after House Republicans rally, kill resolution

As of November 11, 2026, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth remains in his position despite efforts by Democrats and some Republicans to impeach him over the Iran war. On this date, House Republicans blocked an impeachment vote against Hegseth by voting 211-204 to send it to a committee for further study. Republican Thomas Massie, who filed eight articles of impeachment accusing Hegseth of waging unauthorized war and abusing power, was the sole Republican supporting the move.

Earlier in November, after Republicans suffered significant midterm election losses, President Donald Trump initially faced pressure from advisers questioning whether to retain Hegseth as Defense Secretary. However, Trump publicly stated that Hegseth is "doing a great job" and would remain in his position despite criticism over the Iran conflict. Democrats have used their new majority in Congress to propose investigations into the Pentagon chief's actions.

Hegseth defended his decisions during operations in Yemen and against alleged drug smugglers, asserting he stands behind every action taken while portraying impeachment efforts as an attack on US troops.