Larsen votes to impeach President Trump

U.S. Representative Rick Larsen (D-Everett) voted for both articles of impeachment against President Donald Trump Nov. 18. Before his votes Larsen said, “As a Member of Congress, it is my duty to defend the Constitution and preserve the longstanding principles of integrity and accountability. My decision to support impeachment is, and has always been, a decision of conscience based on considering the lasting impact of unchecked executive power.”

Article one, charging abuse of power, state Trump withheld military funding to Ukraine and sought to involve their officials in investigating Joe and Hunter Biden, American citizens, passed 230 votes to 197, with one “present” vote. Article two, obstruction of Congress, for withholding from Congressional investigations documents and staff, was approved by 229 votes to 198.

All Democrats but two voted for impeachment. No Republican representatives voted yes.

Article I, Section 2 of the Constitution gives the House of Representatives “the sole Power of Impeachment.”

Article II, Section 4 defines impeachment and its scope: “The President, Vice President and all civil Officers of the United States, shall be removed from Office on Impeachment for, and Conviction of, Treason, Bribery, or other high Crimes and Misdemeanors.”

The articles will go to the U.S. Senate, which is the sole court for impeachment trials. The power of impeachment is limited to removal from office. Impeached officials cannot hold future office.

The Senate has not yet agreed on their rules for the trial.