Will Pete Hegseth Be Impeached?

Following GOP midterm election losses, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is facing renewed calls for impeachment over his handling of the Iran war, as Democrats prepare to take control of Congress.

Articles of Impeachment: At the center of the push is Kentucky Republican Rep. Thomas Massie, who plans to revive his impeachment effort when lawmakers return next week. Massie has said he will reintroduce articles of impeachment against Hegseth, accusing the defense secretary of carrying out the Iran war without congressional authorization. He said he would drop the effort if Hegseth resigns. The push is expected to gain support from Democrats and some Republicans. The Hill (Center) noted that House Oversight Committee Chair James Comer, R-Ky., acknowledged that Republicans have questions about Hegseth's future. He also said some GOP voters are angry about the Iran war and rising gas prices. 

Hegseth has dismissed the impeachment effort as political theater, accusing lawmakers of trying to undermine him. He has said he will not be deterred by the push.

The Iran War Fallout: The renewed impeachment effort comes after Democrats won control of both chambers of Congress in the midterm elections. The eight-month war with Iran has become a source of political tension. Some White House aides have reportedly discussed whether Hegseth and other military leaders could face blame for the election results. President Donald Trump has also asked allies about Hegseth's standing, according to multiple media reports. Still, Trump appears to remain supportive of Hegseth, saying he's doing a very good job. It remains unclear whether Massie's impeachment effort will advance or how many Republicans would support it. House leadership could also try to prevent a vote.

Earlier in September, Massie expressed his dissatisfaction with Hegseth's handling of the Iran conflict, introducing a resolution to impeach him. 

Left and Right Coverage: Fox News (Right bias) focused on the possibility that a bipartisan impeachment effort could succeed as early as next week, citing GOP lawmakers who believe Hegseth could lose support. CBS News (Lean Left) touched more on Trump's private discussions with advisers about whether Hegseth should remain in his job, while noting that the president has not made a decision and continues to publicly support him. 

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