Demands for Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's Resignation Intensify, Trump Offers Support

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is currently facing severe political pressure. Due to the ongoing war with Iran and his other policies, members of the Democratic Party as well as some lawmakers from his own Republican Party have demanded his resignation. However, President Donald Trump clarified on Thursday that he wishes to keep Hegseth in his position. Expressing surprise over the matter, Trump stated that he does not understand why people are demanding Hegseth's removal.

This controversy has escalated as the Republican Party has suffered a major setback in the 2026 US midterm elections. According to estimates by American media organisations, the Democratic Party could gain control by securing a majority in both the House of Representatives and the Senate. These election results have increased political challenges for the Trump administration. Specifically, Vice President JD Vance has cited the Iran war as a primary reason for the Republican Party's electoral defeat.

Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries questioned via social media why Pete Hegseth is still in his post. Additionally, Jason Crow, a lawmaker from Colorado and member of the House Armed Services Committee, has described Hegseth as incompetent. According to Crow, every day Hegseth spends at the Pentagon increases the risk for American soldiers. New York lawmaker and former military intelligence officer Patrick Ryan also claimed that once the Democrats achieve a majority, their first task should be to remove Hegseth from office.

Interestingly, the opposition against Hegseth is not limited to the opposition party. Republican lawmaker Thomas Massie has also demanded his resignation. Massie warned that if Hegseth does not vacate the post immediately, he will reintroduce an impeachment motion as soon as the next session of Parliament begins. Massie clarified that he would only refrain from bringing the impeachment motion if Hegseth resigns.

Thomas Massie has previously submitted a 34-page impeachment proposal. This proposal contained serious allegations, including military operations conducted in various locations including Iran, Yemen, and Venezuela, civilian deaths, and ignoring parliamentary oversight during military actions. However, according to a report by Amar Ujjawala, these allegations were made by Massie and are not considered officially proven findings of misconduct. His previous proposal did not reach a formal vote in the House.

According to an NDTV India report, Pete Hegseth may face questions not only regarding Iran but also for his policies concerning the Ukraine war. Furthermore, he may be questioned regarding US military attacks on boats claimed to be smuggling drugs in Latin American waters. All these issues have now become a significant risk to Hegseth's position.

In this entire situation, while Democrats and some Republican lawmakers seek his removal, President Trump stands by him. It remains to be seen whether Trump will change his decision or if the impeachment process in Parliament will proceed.