- Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has fended off an impeachment attempt as House Republicans largely united against the effort.
- The impeachment process passed 211 to 204 in the GOP-run House late Tuesday.
- Republicans stayed united—except for impeachment instigator Rep. Thomas Massie (R., Ky.)—and only a handful missed the vote.
- On the Democratic side, 11 members weren’t present for the roll call—potentially more than enough to have swung the result their way.
- Rep. Vicente Gonzalez (D., Texas) expressed widespread frustration, saying, 'People elect us to do the responsible thing, and the minimum is to show up and vote on such an important vote like this.'
- Rep. Gonzalez added, “A lot of us are disappointed that everyone wasn’t there.”
House Republicans successfully blocked an impeachment attempt against Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, with a vote tally of 211-204. The GOP largely united against the effort, with only Rep. Thomas Massie (R., Ky.) dissenting.13
However, the absence of 11 Democratic members during the roll call raised eyebrows, as their presence could have potentially altered the outcome. This absence has led to significant backlash from party activists and colleagues alike.
Rep. Vicente Gonzalez (D., Texas) expressed the frustration felt within the party, stating, “People elect us to do the responsible thing, and the minimum is to show up and vote on such an important vote like this.” He noted that many members were disappointed by the lack of attendance, emphasizing the importance of maintaining pressure on the Pentagon chief.5
The impeachment process, which was anticipated to be contentious, ultimately showcased the divisions within the Democratic Party, as the absence of key members may have cost them a crucial opportunity to challenge Hegseth's position. The GOP's unity in this instance reflects their strategy to consolidate power following recent electoral setbacks, while Democrats face internal challenges that could hinder their effectiveness moving forward.
“The vote saw only Rep. Thomas Massie (R., Ky.) break ranks, while 11 Democrats were absent—enough to have potentially swung the result. Rep. Vicente Gonzalez (D., Texas) called the frustration widespread, adding, 'A lot of us are disappointed that everyone wasn't there.'”
WSJ
