House math: Eight articles blocked as Democrats gain control

Eleven Democrats missed the vote that kept the Defense Secretary in his seat.

That absence allowed House Republicans to block eight articles of impeachment against Pete Hegseth. The articles were introduced by Representative Thomas Massie of Kentucky. They accused Hegseth of mishandling the conflict with Iran and abusing his authority in other operations. Those operations included the seizure of the Venezuelan president and the killing of suspected drug smugglers in international waters.

The vote occurred one day before Zach Dembo, the new Democrat from Kentucky, spoke publicly about the situation. Dembo won a seat that Republicans had held for decades. He told MS NOW that he does not yet have an office in the Capitol. He described his immediate goal as cutting government costs and fighting corruption. He said he will wait until he reviews the specific legal text before deciding how to vote on removal.

Dembo, a former Navy judge advocate general and federal prosecutor, emphasized a preference for evidence over speculation. He stated that holding the Department of Defense accountable is a priority for the 120th Congress. However, he indicated that the timing of formal proceedings is currently premature for his own decision-making process.

The procedural failure of the impeachment push angered many Democrats who are now set to control the House. Several of the absent members cited scheduling conflicts or transportation issues. These reasons frustrated colleagues who viewed the vote as a critical test for the incoming majority.

Massie’s position is complicated by his recent primary loss to a candidate backed by President Donald Trump. Despite that, support for removing Hegseth remains strong among incoming Democratic leaders. Representative Ro Khanna of California declared at a Tuesday press conference that impeaching the Defense Secretary is a top priority for his party. Representative Madeleine Dean of Pennsylvania told NewsNation on Tuesday that she believes Hegseth’s tenure is nearing its end.

The debate extends beyond the House floor. Republican Senator Ted Cruz of Texas predicted that Hegseth will leave his post through resignation, firing, or impeachment. Cruz suggested this transition would likely happen during the second half of President Trump’s current term. The incoming Democratic majority is preparing to take control of the lower chamber, with some lawmakers pushing for swift action and others advocating for a measured legal review.

The tension between the new legislative leadership and the executive branch is already evident as the 120th Congress prepares to convene.