US President Donald Trump has defended Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth amid reports that some Republicans are blaming him for the party’s poor performance in the midterm elections and are considering efforts to impeach him.
According to CNN, Democrats, who reportedly secured control of the House of Representatives following the elections, could move as early as next week to impeach Hegseth.
Republican critics have reportedly accused the defence secretary of playing a major role in persuading Trump to launch military action against Iran without a clear exit strategy.
The criticism comes as some Republicans seek to distance themselves from the political consequences of the conflict, although private discussions among GOP strategists reportedly acknowledge that the party’s electoral difficulties extend beyond the war.
Republican Lawmaker Plans Impeachment Push
Republican Representative Thomas Massie of Kentucky told CNN that he intends to trigger a vote to impeach Hegseth when Congress returns next week.
The report said several Republican sources expect the effort to pass, although no final vote has taken place.
Some Republicans have reportedly accused Hegseth of overstating the United States’ ability to secure a quick victory in the conflict.
They also argue that he has continued to support military escalation despite limited signs that further strikes have brought Iran closer to surrender.
Trump Rejects Calls to Remove Hegseth
Despite the reported criticism, Trump has continued to express confidence in his defence secretary.
An official quoted in the report said Trump recently praised Hegseth during a private meeting, telling him: “You’re my best guy. You’re the best guy I have.”
Trump also reportedly believes Hegseth should resist efforts to remove him from office.
The president may also want to retain the defence secretary if his administration considers further military action against Iran, according to the report.
Trump Defends Iran War Decision
When questioned on Wednesday about Hegseth’s position, Trump rejected suggestions that he planned to fire the defence secretary.
He described Hegseth as “doing a very good job” and defended the decision to launch the war against Iran.
“If I had it to do again, I’d have to do it again,” Trump said.
The reported impeachment push comes amid disagreements within Republican ranks over the administration’s handling of the Iran conflict and the party’s performance in the midterm elections.
However, the claims that Hegseth was chiefly responsible for the election setback remain attributed to Republican critics rather than an established explanation for the results.
