US House Blocks Hegseth Impeachment Effort

The US House of Representatives voted 211-204 to block an impeachment attempt against Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, referring the matter to committee before a full vote on the allegations. The effort by Republican Thomas Massie failed to gain necessary support. Massie accused Hegseth of sending forces into combat against Iran without congressional authorization, violating laws on minimizing civilian casualties, and conducting operations against suspected drug smugglers that critics call unlawful killings. Hegseth rejected the claims, calling the effort a "farce." President Trump celebrated the outcome on Truth Social. Newly elected lawmakers from last week's midterms take office in January, when Democrats will hold majorities in both chambers and could revisit scrutiny of Hegseth's actions.