The defense chief released a video defending his policy actions, such as dismissing top military brass and ending diversity programs, while labeling impeachment moves a sham. President Donald Trump has publicly reaffirmed his support, praising recent operations in Iran and Venezuela. However, incoming House Democratic leaders plan to investigate these conflicts alongside the dismissal of the Joint Chiefs chairman, and some Republicans warn his congressional standing is severely damaged.
Key points
Hegseth is confronting bipartisan pressure as lawmakers prepare impeachment articles and…: Hegseth is confronting bipartisan pressure as lawmakers prepare impeachment articles and sweeping committee inquiries.
Friction over the Iran conflict has fueled internal administration debate regarding respo…: Friction over the Iran conflict has fueled internal administration debate regarding responsibility for midterm congressional losses.
Looming congressional scrutiny risks complicating the administration's proposed 1.5 trill…: Looming congressional scrutiny risks complicating the administration's proposed 1.5 trillion dollar defense spending measure.
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Hegseth's remarks, posted on social media, came as taunts from his foes in Congress intensified and President Donald Trump swatted away questions about whether he might fire Hegseth. Trump has commended his Pentagon chief.
The top Democrat in the House of Representatives, Hakeem Jeffries, asked in a post: "Why is Pete Hegseth still around?"
Hegseth, a former Fox News host, has been a polarizing figure who has made enemies even within his own Republican Party. Critics in Congress are targeting his conduct of the Iran war, which Vice President JD Vance has said cost Republicans control of Congress, his firing of top military officers and strained relations with lawmakers as the administration seeks a $1.5 trillion defense spending package.
Democrats, who won control of Congress in Tuesday's elections, have promised to investigate Hegseth and his handling of the Pentagon, and congressional aides say that would include the firing of the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, among other issues.
Republican Representative Thomas Massie promised to reintroduce articles of impeachment against Hegseth next…
Sweeping Democratic victories that secured control of both chambers of Congress swiftly undermined an unprecedented political spending spree by America PAC. The disappointing electoral outcomes dealt an immediate blow to high-profile conservative candidates, prompting a quiet retreat on social media. Meanwhile, the political shift sparked market worries over regulatory setbacks that rapidly erased billions from major corporate valuations.
Opposition Leader Jess Wilson visited the key bellwether seat of Bentleigh to campaign alongside candidate Tynan Putt ahead of the state election on 28 November. The visit began with an embarrassing mishap as the Coalition's branded campaign vehicle struck a closed jewellery store awning while attempting to reverse into a parking bay. Despite the clumsy entrance, Wilson's party currently holds a solid ten-point lead in recent two-party-preferred polling.
Congressional pressure on the Pentagon leadership has intensified following Republican midterm losses that will expand legislative oversight over foreign military campaigns. Lawmakers across party lines are demanding the defense chief step down over his handling of the conflict with Iran. The administration is aggressively pushing back by pointing to recent overseas operations as decisive victories that protect national security.