US House Democratic leaders say they will vote 'present' on Trump impeachment motion

Release joint statement, say impeachment efforts should follow extensive congressional investigation

United States House Democratic leaders said Monday they will vote “present” on a motion to table an impeachment resolution targeting President Donald Trump, arguing that a formal impeachment effort should follow a more extensive congressional investigation.

Voting “present” means the lawmaker is formally participating but abstaining -- voting neither yes nor no.

House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Democratic Whip Katherine Clark, and Democratic Caucus Chair Pete Aguilar issued the joint statement as the House considers H Res 1486, introduced by Representative Al Green, on August 24. The resolution seeks to impeach Trump for high crimes and misdemeanors and was referred to the House Judiciary Committee.

The Democratic leaders criticised Trump’s conduct and accused the Republican-controlled House of failing to hold the administration accountable. They also said Democrats remain focused on the cost of groceries, gasoline, goods, and health care.

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At the same time, the leaders drew a distinction between opposing Trump and supporting an immediate impeachment vote. They argued that impeachment should follow a comprehensive congressional investigation involving documents, witness testimony, hearings, and public scrutiny.

"Impeachment is a sacred constitutional vehicle designed to hold a corrupt executive accountable for abuse of power, breaking the law and violating the public trust," they said.

The leaders argued that the necessary investigative work has not been completed.

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"Accordingly, we will again vote 'present' on the motion to table the impeachment resolution as we continue our fight to make life more affordable for everyday Americans, while committing to holding the crooks accountable using every tool available to us beginning on day one."

H Res 1486 contains articles alleging that Trump abused presidential power through his administration of US Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Customs and Border Protection.

The resolution specifically references the deaths of Renee Good, Alex Pretti, Lorenzo Salgado Araujo, and Johan Sebastian Duran Guerrero, and alleges violations of constitutional rights and court orders.

Those are allegations contained in Green’s resolution, rather than findings established by the House.