Hegseth defends Iran war as Republicans face midterm fallout

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth publicly defended the Iran war and his performance in a video Thursday, as critics intensify calls for his removal following Republican midterm losses. President Trump and Vice President JD Vance have linked voter disapproval of the conflict to the GOP's defeat. Hegseth praised Trump and framed the conflict as a "courageous and historic effort," while urging Congress to approve the Pentagon's $1.5 trillion budget request. The video was part of a coordinated messaging campaign, and Trump reiterated support for Hegseth, citing his reduction of "woke" generals. An impeachment effort led by Rep. Thomas Massie could occur next week. Democrats plan to investigate the war, which began in February without congressional consent and led to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, spiking global gas prices. Hegseth dismissed critics as "Democrats and deep-state radicals," while speculation about him filling a Tennessee Senate seat was dismissed.