Republican-Led House Blocks Pete Hegseth Impeachment Bid Over Iran War in 211–204 Procedural Vote

The Republican-led U.S. House of Representatives blocked an effort to impeach Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on November 10, voting 211–204 to send the resolution to the Judiciary Committee rather than proceed to a vote on the charges. ⠀ The procedural move effectively ended the immediate impeachment push by Republican Rep. Thomas Massie of Kentucky, who introduced eight articles accusing Hegseth of abusing his authority during U.S. military operations in Iran, Yemen, Venezuela and the Caribbean. ⠀ Massie alleged that Hegseth had continued the war against Iran without congressional authorization, disregarded protections for civilians, directed unlawful strikes on suspected drug-trafficking vessels and retaliated against Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly. The allegations were not adjudicated in Tuesday's vote. ⠀ Massie was the only Republican to oppose referring the measure to committee, joining Democrats in voting against the procedural motion. His attempt had drawn support from Democratic leaders despite opposition from House Speaker Mike Johnson and President Donald Trump. ⠀ Earlier Tuesday, Hegseth dismissed the impeachment effort as a “farce” and a “political spectacle,” arguing that the accusations amounted to policy disputes rather than impeachable offenses. ⠀ Massie, who is leaving Congress in January, said he did not plan to introduce another impeachment resolution. Democrats could revive the issue when they take control of the House and Senate on January 3, 2027.