Hegseth Impeachment Push Targets Nov. 9

House Democrats intend to initiate impeachment proceedings against Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth immediately after the midterm elections. The party plans to force a vote on his removal when the House returns to session on November 9. This date falls the day after the general election.

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries outlined the strategy during a campaign rally in Pennsylvania. He told supporters that running Hegseth out of office would be one of the first actions taken by a Democratic majority. "One of the first things we're going to do in the majority, we're going to run Pete Hegseth out of town," Jeffries said.

Other members of Congress have used sharper language. Rep. Pramila Jayapal called the secretary incompetent and corrupt in a recent interview. Rep. Jared Huffman described Hegseth as an unhinged fanatic who needs to be impeached and removed. These comments reflect a growing push within the party to hold the defense chief accountable.

Pressure is also coming from the Republican side. Rep. Thomas Massie filed articles of impeachment in September. Massie accused Hegseth of abusing his authority by ordering military action against Iran without congressional approval. He is a vocal critic of the conflict and US aid to Israel. Massie said he will seek to force a vote on November 9.

The political maneuvering coincides with recent scrutiny of Hegseth's international activities. He met privately with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at Ovda air base on Monday. This visit occurred days before Israel's own election. Two sources confirmed the meeting took place, and Hegseth acknowledged the visit but declined to share details.

Reports indicate that Iran was the main topic of discussion. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz attended the meeting. Senior military officials, including IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir, were excluded from the conversation for confidentiality reasons. The timing of the meeting and the push for impeachment create a tense backdrop for the upcoming congressional session.