For the first time since 1876: The historic drama approaching the Pentagon

Pete Hegseth, the US Secretary of Defense, makes clear he will not resign ahead of a possible impeachment vote in Congress over his management of the war in Iran. Trump continues to back him, but Republicans are beginning to question his policy. Democrats are expected to gain full control of Congress next year.

Pete Hegseth, the US Secretary of Defense, faces a possible impeachment vote in Congress over his management of the war in Iran, the dismissal of senior officers, and the cancellation of diversity policies in the defense establishment. According to a report in the Wall Street Journal, Hegseth made clear to his allies that he will not resign, and if impeached, he will use the stage for a head-on confrontation. US President Donald Trump continues to back him, contrary to precedents like the firing of Donald Rumsfeld after 2006. His critics hope that pressure will force Trump to change his mind if opposition threatens Pentagon budgets. Even if Hegseth survives now, he may face another impeachment trial next year when Democrats control Congress. Republicans have speculated that Tennessee Governor Marsha Blackburn would appoint Hegseth to the Senate, but sources close to him dismissed the idea as political spin.