Republicans target Hegseth after midterm defeat

Republicans are targeting US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth following the party's heavy defeat in the midterm elections, with an impeachment resolution potentially coming to a House vote as early as next week. Republican lawmakers privately blame Hegseth for influencing President Trump's decision to attack Iran without a clear exit strategy, though they acknowledge the party's problems were broader than the war. Representative Thomas Massie plans to force a vote on Hegseth's impeachment when Congress reconvenes. Trump continues to publicly support Hegseth, calling him "the best" and saying he is doing a "very good job." However, some Republicans see Hegseth as a likely scapegoat for the electoral loss, while Hegseth has signaled he is prepared to defend his decisions in public hearings.