Democrats move to impeach Hegseth after GOP midterm losses

Democrats are moving to impeach US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth following the Republican Party's sweeping loss in Tuesday's midterm elections, with critics blaming his role in the US-Israel war on Iran for the defeat. An impeachment vote in the House could come as soon as next week. Republican Congressman Thomas Massie filed eight impeachment accusations against Hegseth in September and plans to trigger a vote when Congress returns. Massie argues Hegseth's "constitutional violations extend beyond the illegal war in Iran," citing abuse of power, ignoring congressional war powers resolutions, and retaliating against critics. Many Republicans, while avoiding direct blame of President Donald Trump, view the war as the main reason for the electoral wipeout. An impeachment in the House requires only a simple majority, but conviction in the Senate needs a two-thirds vote, a high hurdle given Democrats will hold at most 56 seats. Analysts say pressure on Hegseth to resign will likely grow regardless, as Republicans seeking leadership positions may distance themselves from the war to appeal to anti-war MAGA voters.