 Friend -- this team knows better than anyone: I didn't run for Congress to impeach a president. I ran to clean up corruption, repair our government, reduce the influence of special interests, and inspire my colleagues to start working together again. When I assumed office on January 3rd, 2019, I took an oath to support and defend the Constitution of the United States. In doing so, I pledged to place our common interests over those of deep-pocketed special interests -- and ensure power is returned to the voters to which it belongs. After participating in depositions, attending hearings, listening to witnesses, and reviewing the facts, it wasn't my task to determine if the president was guilty or not guilty, rather to decide if the evidence warranted a trial in the US Senate. In my estimation, President Trump placed his personal, political interests over our national interest and policy and obstructed the efforts of Congress to ascertain the facts. Thus, I voted to forward articles of impeachment to the Senate for a trial. I didn't come to this conclusion lightly. In fact, I did so with a heavy heart but a clear conscience. And I recognize that in such divisive times, such a vote of principle may make me a one-term member of Congress. And I know that the National Republican Congressional Committee, Congressional Leadership Fund, and my GOP opponents will use my votes, distort the truth, and launch vicious and misleading attacks against me. They've already promised that I'll lose my seat, and the Democratic House majority along with it. But I believe they're wrong. This isn't about politics. It's about having the courage to uphold our core principles and values -- something we need more of in Washington. Repairing government is no easy task. But with you by my side I'm hopeful and optimistic about our future. Change is coming, but it requires all of us to participate. Thank you for standing with me. Today and every day. Dean
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