Jeffries sets two-thirds threshold for war powers vote

Hakeem Jeffries, the New York Democrat expected to become the next Speaker of the House, outlined a plan to force President Trump to address the war in Iran. Speaking on Friday's Morning Edition, Jeffries described the conflict as a "war of choice" that has driven up the cost of gas, diesel, and fertilizer. He stated that Democrats should not wait for the new Congress to convene before acting on these rising costs.

With majorities in both chambers after the recent midterm victories, Jeffries said his party can pass a war powers resolution. The resolution would require the President to sign the bill or issue a veto. If Trump chooses to veto the measure, Democrats would need to assemble two-thirds majorities in both the House and Senate to override it. Jeffries acknowledged that his party is currently short of that veto-proof threshold in both chambers.

The plan builds on a timeline that began in the spring of 2025. At that time, Jeffries first called for Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to be fired by Trump. He maintained that position through the election cycle, arguing that Hegseth should have resigned or been removed long ago. Following the election, Republican Representative Thomas Massie of Kentucky threatened to force a House vote on eight articles of impeachment against Hegseth if the Secretary did not resign.

Jeffries addressed the impeachment question directly. He called Hegseth "the most unqualified secretary of defense in American history" and said, "He's got to go." However, he stopped short of committing to impeachment proceedings immediately. "We'll have that conversation," Jeffries said. "I don't want to get out ahead of the caucus." He indicated the decision would rest with the House Democratic Caucus when they gather upon their return.

The incoming leadership also plans to investigate alleged wrongdoing by the Trump administration. Jeffries said the House Judiciary and Oversight committees would lead these efforts. He noted that the party had "battled Trump on every issue up until this point" and decisively defeated him in the recent elections. Jeffries defended the Democratic record while acknowledging that voters had expressed a desire for new leadership and stronger action on affordability.

The next step involves the new Congress taking office and the Democratic caucus holding internal discussions. Jeffries said the party would work to drive down the price of groceries, gas, and housing. He also stated that Democrats would hold officials accountable for what he described as corruption and law breaking. The process will begin as the new members assemble to select the final leadership structure.