Top House Democrat Hakeem Jeffries 'a hard yes' on impeaching Pete Hegseth
House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries has expressed strong support for impeaching Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, citing concerns over unauthorized military actions in Iran. The move follows a Democratic victory in the midterm elections, setting the stage for increased legislative friction with the Trump administration.
Why it matters
Signals a significant escalation in political conflict between the incoming Democratic-controlled House and the Trump administration regarding executive war powers.
Share Save Add as preferred on Google Brandon Drenon Washington DC EPA/Reuters Hakeem Jeffries (left) made the comments after Pete Hegseth (right) released a video doubling down on his record as defence secretary The top Democrat widely expected to be the next US House of Representatives Speaker has said he is "a hard yes" for impeaching Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth.
New York congressman Hakeem Jeffries told ABC's programme This Week that Hegseth had "abused his power, undermined our national security, and engineered this reckless and costly war of choice in Iran".
Outgoing Republican congressman Thomas Massie, a foe of President Donald Trump, has said he plans as early as Monday to introduce a resolution to impeach Hegseth, which could result in his removal from office.
The Pentagon told the BBC it had followed the law and that Hegseth would not be deterred by "phony investigations".
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