11 absent Democrats could have tipped Hegseth impeachment vote

The U.S. House of Representatives voted 211-204 against impeaching Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, with 11 absent Democratic lawmakers potentially able to have changed the outcome. The failed motion has sparked criticism from colleagues. The vote saw 18 total members absent, of which only 7 were Republicans, leaving 11 Democrats missing. These absent Democrats could have provided the necessary votes to pass the impeachment resolution, which ultimately fell short. The impeachment effort against Hegseth reflects ongoing political tensions over his leadership at the Pentagon. The close vote highlights the narrow margins in Congress and the significance of attendance during critical legislative actions.