An effort to launch impeachment proceedings against US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has stalled after the House of Representatives voted to refer the measure to committee, preventing a vote on the proposal this week.
The move effectively halts, for now, a process that could have led to a Senate trial and possible removal from office.
Resolution referred to committee
US lawmakers voted on Tuesday to send the impeachment resolution against Hegseth to committee, blocking immediate consideration by the House of Representatives.
The measure, which set out the articles of impeachment, was backed by Democrats and its Republican sponsor, outgoing Congressman Thomas Massie.
As a result, the proposal will not be put to a House vote this week.
Democrats could revisit the issue
Following their strong performance in the midterm elections, Democrats could revive the matter in January when they are expected to hold majorities in both chambers of Congress.
Any renewed effort would reopen the possibility of impeachment proceedings against the defence secretary.
Trump welcomes outcome
US President Donald Trump welcomed the failure of the initiative to advance.
Writing on Truth Social, Trump said the effort against the former Fox News presenter had "miserably failed" and again praised Hegseth, describing him as a "great patriot".
Process remains on hold
With the resolution now referred to committee, no further action is expected in the House before the end of the current congressional session.
The issue could return to the legislative agenda when the new Congress convenes in January.
Source: ANA-MPA
