Elected Democrats call for impeachment of Defense Secretary

Democratic legislators who won seats in the 2026 election are pressing for an immediate end to the conflict in Iran. The group includes several veterans who recently secured their positions in Congress. They argue that the war was a primary factor in their electoral victories and that they have a duty to voters to halt the military engagement.

Rep.-elect Zach Dembo from Kentucky highlighted the impact of the war on his campaign. He noted that he won a district where President Donald Trump had a 15-point margin of victory in 2024. Dembo stated that his background as a veteran and former prosecutor helped him connect with voters who wanted less political influence in the Pentagon.

The lawmakers propose a specific legislative path to end the hostilities. They are calling for the impeachment of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth as the first step. Rep. Chrissy Houlahan from Pennsylvania emphasized the need to improve the relationship between the government and its allies, service members, and veterans. She stated that the process begins with removing Hegseth from his position at the Pentagon.

Rep. Chris Deluzio from Pennsylvania outlined the legal mechanisms available to Congress. He said the chamber can terminate the war by utilizing War Powers Acts and by withholding funding from the administration. Deluzio described the current funding approach as a blank check for a war that neither the American people nor Congress formally authorized.

Deluzio also addressed the safety of troops currently deployed in the region. He asserted that commanders would continue to protect their forces during a withdrawal or while stationed at bases. He said the military requires clear leadership to execute its duties effectively in these scenarios.

The new members of Congress will be sworn in on January 3, 2027. Until then, the elected officials are coordinating their messaging and preparing for the legislative sessions that will begin with the new year.