Hegseth must go: New Speaker candidate sets terms for war powers vote

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries declared that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth "has to go" on Friday, signaling an immediate push for the official's removal following Democratic midterm victories. The New York Democrat, who is expected to become the first Black Speaker of the House, linked the administration's military actions in Iran directly to rising consumer costs in the United States.

Jeffries described the conflict as a "war of choice" that has driven up the price of gas, diesel, and fertilizer. He noted that these increases have raised the cost of groceries and other everyday goods for American families. The incoming Speaker candidate argued that the administration's focus on the conflict has failed to deliver on promises to lower the high cost of living.

The incoming majority in both chambers of Congress will attempt to pass a war powers resolution. This legislative move would force President Donald Trump to either sign the bill or veto it. If Trump vetoes the measure, Democrats would need two-thirds majorities in both the House and the Senate to override the decision. As of now, the party is short of a veto-proof majority in either chamber.

Jeffries said Democrats "shouldn't have to wait" for the new Congress to assemble before acting. He stated that the American people have clearly expressed a desire for the war to end. The incoming Speaker candidate said the party will advance strong resolutions to the President's desk, forcing him to explain his decision to the public if he chooses to use his veto.

The question of impeachment remains unresolved within the party. Republican Representative Thomas Massie of Kentucky has threatened to force a House vote on eight articles of impeachment against Hegseth unless the Secretary resigns. In response to a direct question about whether Democrats would support impeachment, Jeffries said, "I don't want to get out ahead of the caucus."

Jeffries called Hegseth "the most unqualified secretary of defense in American history." He added that the official should have been fired by President Trump in the spring of 2025. The incoming Speaker candidate said he will hold a conversation with the House Democratic Caucus immediately upon their return to finalize their strategy on the Secretary's future.

The House Judiciary and Oversight committees will lead investigations into alleged wrongdoing by the Trump administration. Jeffries stated that the party will function as a separate and co-equal branch of government, guided by the Constitution and the facts. He said the decision on new leadership structures, including the speakership, rests with the House Democratic Caucus.