Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has survived an impeachment attempt after the House blocked a vote to refer articles of impeachment to a committee. The 211-204 vote effectively ended the effort until the next Congress convenes in January.
The vote, which fell largely along party lines, came after Rep. Thomas Massie introduced articles alleging that Hegseth waged an unlawful war against Iran, ordered extrajudicial killings, and ignored laws intended to limit civilian casualties. Eleven Democrats and seven Republicans did not vote.
Hegseth called the impeachment effort a farce during a Pentagon news conference, rejecting claims that he committed impeachable offenses and likening himself to President Donald Trump. He warned that the resolution would signal to adversaries that the United States would punish its own leaders for conducting lawful military operations.
President Donald Trump has publicly defended Hegseth, praising his performance and urging Congress to stand up for him. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, who may become majority leader, said Hegseth should face a Senate trial if impeached, while a new Congress with Democratic control could attempt another impeachment.
Source: newhampshirebulletin.com
