White House officials warned Democrats they could face criminal investigation if they pursue oversight probes of the administration. The presidential legal adviser rejected what he called threats from the opposition. Democrats had promised to investigate suspect aspects of the administration. Separately, the House blocked a bid to impeach Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.
Why it matters: The clash sets the tone for how Congress and the White House work together.
The House voted 211 to 204 to refer a Republican-led impeachment bid against Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to committee, effectively ending it. Democrats can try again next year. Separately, a guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier reprimanded Hegseth's group for noise on Wednesday. Trump defended Hegseth.
Why it matters: The vote leaves the Pentagon chief in office as the Iran war continues.
The US House voted 211 to 204 to send articles of impeachment against Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to a committee. This stops a floor vote for now. Republican Thomas Massie introduced the articles, citing the Iran war and other grounds. Hegseth called the effort a farce. President Trump praised him as a "Great American Patriot." Democrats can try again next year, and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez said they will.
Why it matters: It tests congressional limits on a president's war powers and Hegseth's standing.
Republican Rep. Thomas Massie filed articles of impeachment against Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. He accuses him of waging war on Iran without congressional authorization. A House vote is expected this week and is likely to fail. Trump and Rubio defended Hegseth, and Trump called Massie a loser. Hegseth plans a news conference to defend his record.
Why it matters: The vote tests Republican unity after midterm losses and the war's political cost.
House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries said he is a 'hard yes' on impeaching Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. He said Hegseth 'has abused his power.' House Democrats plan to discuss a possible resolution on November 10. Democrats also plan investigations of Trump allies. Impeachment would need a House majority to proceed.
Why it matters: It signals how aggressively Democrats may use congressional power against senior officials after taking the House.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth fired Lt. Gen. Brett Sylvia, who ran strategy and planning for the Joint Chiefs. The Pentagon accused him of leaking and referred the case to the Justice Department.
Why it matters: The firing comes as Trump weighs new action on Iran.
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