Republicans block Hegseth impeachment, Trump attacks sponsor

Republicans blocked an impeachment resolution against Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, referring it to committee and preventing a full House vote. President Trump celebrated the outcome and attacked the resolution's sponsor, Republican Representative Thomas Massie. The House leadership and White House worked behind the scenes to secure enough votes for the referral, avoiding a contentious floor vote. Trump called the effort a "total failure" and praised Hegseth's record, while the Pentagon described the result as a "total victory." The referral does not permanently end the matter, as Hegseth's team expects Democrats to pursue new impeachment efforts in 2027 when they gain House control, likely preceded by hearings and investigations.