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Democrats Criticized Over Missed Vote

House Democratic whip Katherine Clark told colleagues that members who missed a vote on impeaching Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth disappointed the public. Eleven Democratic absences allowed Republicans to block the effort.

House Minority Whip Katherine Clark (D-MA) speaks at a Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC) midterm election night watch party as election results point toward Democrats regaining control of the US House of Representatives, in Washington, DC, US, November 3, 2026. REUTERS/Jonathan Ernst

Eleven absent Democrats allowed House Republicans to block an impeachment effort against Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth by a margin of 7 votes on Tuesday. The outcome sparked internal criticism across the United States following a wave election that secured congressional majorities for Democrats. The failed vote drew sharp rebukes from party leadership as members prepare to take control of both chambers early next year.