Impeachment.

In the 231 years since our Constitution was ratified, the House of Representatives has only impeached two presidents, neither convicted. By resigning, Richard Nixon escaped the verdict of the House and Senate but did not escape the verdict of history.

We're at a pivotal moment in history again.

Impeachment is a solemn process, one that we do not undertake lightly. As the evidence mounts, as the truth is revealed, it is more clear every day that Congress has a duty to act.

The President may claim his interactions with Ukraine were "perfect", but his actions tell the tale. By desperately trying to cover it up, lie about it, and withhold evidence about it, Donald Trump reveals that he knew his actions were wrong.

He has lied. He has corrupted. He has obstructed.

He put his own personal interests above our national security.

He abused the power we placed in his hands.

If we fail to hold him to account, we fail the American people and the democratic republic we have built together.

I've taken an oath to defend our Constitution. I will keep that oath.

That's why I voted to start the formal impeachment process in the House.

I do not celebrate that vote. But I am resolute. The American people deserve a president, now and forever, who puts their interests above his own.

Joe