Hegseth impeachment test awaits as Congress returns to reordered Washington with a hazy agenda
Impeachment leads early business
A House vote on impeaching Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is expected among Congress’s first business as lawmakers return. Republican Rep. Thomas Massie advanced the resolution despite opposition from House GOP leaders.
Democrats are expected to broadly support the measure, while several Republicans have indicated they may do so as well. House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries said Hegseth should leave office, accusing him of abusing power and putting national security at risk.
President Donald Trump defended Hegseth on Sunday night before returning to Washington from Florida. Trump said Hegseth was being targeted for winning two wars and argued that his actions made impeachment unjustified.
A short legislative window
The House and Senate have six weeks in session to complete Republican priorities before their majorities end. The change of power is set for Jan. 3, 2027. Leadership elections and a government funding package are among the priorities. It remains uncertain whether House Speaker Mike Johnson can slow the impeachment effort, unless he adjourns the chamber again.
New lawmakers arrive
Incoming lawmakers are arriving for orientation as retiring members begin clearing out of the Capitol. The overlap is expected to bring crowds to its halls this week. Democrats appeared energized by their party’s election sweep, while the Republicans arriving spoke about the challenges ahead. Missouri Republican Rep.-elect Chris Stigall said voters had sent a clear message and that he hoped to help the party reconnect.
GOP weighs election losses
Republicans in both chambers plan to hold closed-door leadership elections this week. The meetings could include disputes over the party’s election performance. Trump has chosen senior aide Stephen Miller as his new chief of staff. Johnson’s rise followed a failed speaker contest three years ago in which he and another man could not secure enough support from House Republicans.
Key points
- Congress has six weeks to pursue Republican priorities before the party’s majorities end on Jan. 3, 2027.
- Democrats are expected to support the resolution, and some Republicans may join them.
- Republicans plan closed-door leadership elections as the party confronts its midterm losses.