Speaker calls the House into early recess

House Republicans are heading back to their districts earlier than planned, leaving a contentious impeachment fight waiting in Washington until after the November elections.

GOP leaders called off Thursday’s House votes, postponing Rep. Thomas Massie’s effort to impeach Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.

The House is expected to take up the resolution after returning on November 9.

Massie introduced the impeachment measure Tuesday under a procedure that required House action within two legislative days. He argues that Hegseth’s conduct has violated constitutional and legal responsibilities.

The scheduling decision comes as Republicans defend a razor-thin House majority. Speaker Mike Johnson said members should spend the next several weeks campaigning, meeting voters and promoting their legislative record.

Massie has repeatedly broken with Trump and GOP leaders over US military action involving Iran and Venezuela, putting him at odds with much of his party.

The Senate will remain in session for the next three weeks.