Larson Votes for Articles of Impeachment

Washington, D.C. – Today, Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01) voted for the two articles of impeachment against President Donald Trump.

"As we vote today, I think it is instructive that Americans reflect on how we got to this point. The impeachment of Donald J. Trump has largely been brought on by the President himself.

"The President took two specific actions: he directly solicited a foreign government to gather information on his political opponent. He then further sought to promote a false narrative that it was Ukraine, and not Russia, who interfered with the elections in 2016. With the ability to correct the record, clear his name, or offer explanation for his actions, he chose instead to obstruct a co-equal branch of government from performing its Constitutional responsibilities of oversight and review. He did this by refusing testimony, ignoring Congressional subpoenas, and not providing Congress with any pertinent information or data.

"Today we're putting Russia and other adversaries on notice, don't interfere with our elections. Russia tried to divide the country in 2016, but they only succeed if America turns away from the rule of law.

"Some Republicans have excused the President's behavior by saying, ‘Donald Trump isn't a politician, he's a businessman. This is Trump being Trump, this how he's used to doing business.'

"That very well may be true, but in a constitutional democracy, no one, including Donald Trump, is above the law.

"I realize there are people who feel strongly and differently than I do, but to do nothing, to take no vote, is in essence condoning this behavior that disregards our Constitution. Republicans may see today differently, but as we look forward, we must stand united as a Congress in defending our democracy.

"For a democracy to work in a system of checks and balances, no one is above the law. The President takes an oath of allegiance to the United States Constitution; there are no exceptions for the art of the deal."

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