Defense Secretary Hegseth faces renewed impeachment push and broader congressional scrutiny over Iran war after midterms

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is expected to face intensified scrutiny from both parties after the Nov. 3 midterm elections over the war with Iran, its rising cost and the administration’s decision to wage hostilities without explicit congressional authorization.

Republican Rep. Thomas Massie of Kentucky plans to revive his impeachment effort when the House returns after the elections. Massie previously filed articles accusing Hegseth of abusing his office by carrying out the Iran war without congressional approval.

Democrats are also preparing broader investigations if they gain control of the House or Senate, with lawmakers expected to examine the decision to enter the war, its conduct, casualties, spending and the Pentagon’s handling of congressional oversight.

The pressure is broader than impeachment alone. Republican lawmakers including Sen. Thom Tillis and Senate Armed Services Committee Chairman Roger Wicker have publicly criticized aspects of Hegseth’s leadership and Pentagon decision-making, although that does not mean they support removing him from office.

The Iran war has cost U.S. taxpayers an estimated $47.1 billion as of Oct. 16, according to Pentagon figures provided to Congress. The total includes roughly $29 billion for munitions, $11.9 billion for operations and about $6 billion in equipment losses, but excludes damage to U.S. bases in the region.

The Pentagon says 21 U.S. service members have been killed and more than 850 wounded during the conflict.

Hegseth retains President Donald Trump’s support. Trump said Thursday that the defense secretary was “doing a great job” and dismissed impeachment efforts against him.

Even if the House were to impeach Hegseth, removing him would require a two-thirds majority in the Senate, making conviction unlikely without substantial Republican support.