A procedural vote on impeaching Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth failed Tuesday after eleven Democratic lawmakers were absent from the chamber. The measure to refer eight articles of impeachment to a House committee passed 211-204, with the Democratic absences proving decisive in the effort’s defeat.
Several of the missing Democrats attributed their absence to circumstances beyond their control. Multiple lawmakers reported being stuck in traffic, including representatives from New York, California, Nevada, and Washington. One California representative stated she was blocked from entering the Capitol by a police escort, while another from Colorado said she was denied the ability to vote. A California representative noted she was in San Francisco attending a veterans event, and a California representative indicated he was undergoing a medical procedure in his district.
Democratic colleagues who were present voiced criticism of those who missed the vote. A senator-elect from Michigan and a representative-elect from North Carolina called on their peers to fulfill their duties and attend votes on important matters. A California representative stated there was no reason the vote should have been lost due to attendance issues. Several lawmakers who did participate noted they had managed to attend despite personal circumstances, with one New York representative leaving the hospital early following back surgery to cast his vote.
The articles of impeachment, introduced by Republican Thomas Massie, included charges related to military actions in Iran. A Maryland Democrat characterized the absences as disappointing but suggested there would be future opportunities to advance impeachment efforts, noting that Democrats are expected to regain control of both chambers in January. He also argued that voter concerns about affordability and cost of living should remain a priority focus for the party.
At an Arlington National Cemetery event marking Veterans Day, President Donald Trump praised Hegseth’s performance, stating the defense secretary had done a “fantastic job” and expressing that the failed impeachment attempt was unsurprising.
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