US House blocks impeachment bid against Defense Secretary Hegseth

The U.S. House of Representatives rejected an impeachment attempt against Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Tuesday, blocking the resolution from advancing by a vote of 211 to 204. The measure, introduced by Republican Representative Thomas Massie, was effectively ended by the vote to refer it to a parliamentary committee. Massie was the only Republican to vote against the referral, joining Democrats in the effort. The impeachment request contained eight accusations, including starting a war against Iran without congressional authorization, violating rules to reduce civilian deaths, and conducting attacks on suspected drug-smuggling vessels in the Caribbean. President Donald Trump defended Hegseth and publicly criticized Massie, while Vice President JD Vance called the initiative a political spectacle. Hegseth dismissed the accusations as partisan policy disagreements. Democrats could revisit the matter when they take control of Congress in January, though Massie, who is leaving office, said he will not file a new resolution.