Jeffries Says Hegseth Must Go But Withholds Impeachment Support
Incoming House Speaker Hakeem Jeffries calls Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth the most unqualified in American history while the party weighs a war powers resolution against Iran.
By Ethan Cooper ·
The cost of the war in Iran has driven up prices for gasoline, diesel, and fertilizer, according to House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries. The New York Democrat, who is expected to become the next Speaker of the House, said the conflict is a war of choice that has increased the cost of everyday goods for American consumers.
Jeffries spoke with NPR's Morning Edition on Friday to outline his party's agenda following their midterm victories. He stated that Democrats should not wait for the new Congress to convene before acting. With majorities in both the House and Senate, the party plans to pass a war powers resolution. This measure would force President Trump to sign the bill or veto it. Overriding a presidential veto requires two-thirds majorities in both chambers, a threshold Democrats currently lack.
The incoming Speaker addressed the question of accountability for administration officials. He identified Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth as a primary target for scrutiny. Jeffries described Hegseth as the most unqualified secretary of defense in American history. He said Hegseth should never have been confirmed by Senate Republicans and noted the damage to military readiness and global standing.
Republican Representative Thomas Massie of Kentucky has threatened to force a House vote on eight articles of impeachment unless Hegseth resigns. Massie accused Democrats of using political theater to destroy their opponents. In response to a direct question about whether Democrats should impeach Hegseth, Jeffries said he did not want to get out ahead of the caucus. He added that Hegseth has got to go.
Jeffries first called for Trump to fire Hegseth in the spring of 2025. He said his position has not changed and that the secretary should have resigned or been fired long ago. The House Democratic Caucus will hold a conversation about impeachment immediately upon their return. The party also plans to use the House Judiciary and Oversight committees to investigate alleged wrongdoing by the Trump administration.
Incoming Oversight Committee Chair Robert Garcia posted online that Democrats should lawyer up. He outlined a plan to investigate the Trump family for possible crimes. Jeffries said he is on the same page regarding accountability. He stated that Democrats will follow the facts and apply the law to hold those who break norms accountable.
Voters expressed dissatisfaction with party leadership and a perceived inability to stand up to Trump during the campaign. Some called for new blood in the party, including a new Speaker. Jeffries said the decision on leadership rests with the House Democratic Caucus. He defended the party record by noting they battled Trump on every issue and decisively defeated him at the polls a few days ago.
The Vice President has expressed an understanding that it is time to end the war in Iran. Jeffries said Republicans will continue to pay electoral consequences if they do not act. Democrats aim to drive down the price of groceries, gas, housing, and health care while holding officials accountable for corruption.
