The push for Hegseth's removal has gained bipartisan traction after the Senate failed to stop the Iran war in a 49-50 vote on Oct. 10. House Democrats, including Rep. Melanie Stansbury, have listed the secretary's impeachment as a top three priority for next year, and even some representatives in Trump-leaning districts have called for the effort. While Democratic leadership remains reluctant to pursue a third impeachment of Trump, they view Hegseth as a viable target. Rep. Massie also accused Speaker Mike Johnson of adjourning the House early to block votes on Hegseth and the Epstein files.
Wednesday, October 21, 2026
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Trump May Fire Pete Hegseth to Preempt Lame Duck Impeachment Vote
US Politics5 days ago
President Donald Trump is contemplating the removal of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to shield his own political reputation from the unpopular war in Iran, according to multiple reports. Trump may fire Hegseth after the midterms to frame him as the primary source of the conflict's failures and preserve his image as an anti-war leader, while simultaneously purging other administration officials amid corruption allegations. Rep. Thomas Massie, a Republican, has vowed to reintroduce articles of impeachment against Hegseth during the lame duck session regardless of the election results, urging Trump to fire the secretary as a more honorable alternative.
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