Democrats Take Control of Congress as House Eyes Hegseth Impeachment
Democrats assumed unified control of Congress on November 9, while House Republicans consider impeaching Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth over the war with Iran.
The 119th Congress reconvened in Washington on November 9, 2026, with Democrats holding unified control of both chambers following the midterm elections. The transition leaves Republican leadership in a precarious position for their final weeks in power, facing narrow margins and the potential absence of defeated lame-duck members.
Legislative priorities center on a December 11 deadline to pass a spending agreement to prevent a government shutdown. Other urgent items include the National Defense Authorization Act and a bipartisan energy permitting bill. Amidst this legislative push, President Donald Trump replaced Chief of Staff Susie Wiles with Stephen Miller.
Political conflict has intensified in the House, where Representative Thomas Massie is leading an impeachment effort against Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth. The charges stem from the administration's conduct in the war with Iran and a failure to consult Congress. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries has declared his support for the impeachment.
Leadership changes are imminent as Speaker Mike Johnson announced he will not seek a leadership post following the Republican losses. Both chambers are scheduled to elect new leaders this week.
