In a surprising move, a Democratic representative has opted to go against the grain, seeking to bring impeachment proceedings against former President Donald Trump. This bold step comes despite the anticipated lack of support from fellow lawmakers, setting the stage for a likely unsuccessful procedural vote in the House.
Rep. Shri Thanedar of Michigan, originally from India, is spearheading this initiative, driven by his commitment to uphold the Constitution. His resolution lists seven impeachment articles against Trump, citing alleged misconduct such as bribery, corruption, and constitutional violations.
“Donald J. Trump has been committing crimes since day one — bribery, corruption, taking power from Congress, creating an unlawful office in DOGE, violating First Amendment rights, ignoring due process,” Thanedar declared from the House floor.
This marks the third impeachment effort targeting Trump, who was previously impeached twice during his initial presidency. The first impeachment involved charges over military aid to Ukraine, while the second centered on incitement of insurrection following the Capitol riot on January 6, 2021. Trump was acquitted by the Senate both times.
Despite Thanedar’s determination, the impeachment proposal has not garnered backing from Democratic leadership. Many in the party argue the focus should remain on opposing Republican policies that could slash vital programs like Medicaid and nutrition aid.
Rep. Hank Johnson, D-Ga., commented, “There’s no support for an impeachment resolution. There have been no hearings on compiling a record for which impeachment can be based. And this is just a procedure that’s meaningless at this point.”
Echoing this sentiment, Rep. Rick Larsen, D-Wash., emphasized the need to prioritize issues affecting Americans’ wellbeing over the impeachment effort.
Meanwhile, Thanedar’s resolution arrives amidst Trump’s international travels in the Middle East, raising concerns about potential conflicts between personal business pursuits and presidential responsibilities, especially with reports of a possible gift of an airplane from Qatar.
Thanedar expressed urgency in his actions, stating, “My constituents want me to act. It’s time for us to stand up and speak.” He underscored his oath to protect the Constitution, suggesting Trump’s actions have breached this promise.
The procedural vote Thanedar has initiated aims to decide whether to advance the impeachment discussion or dismiss it entirely.
Republican Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia, a staunch Trump supporter, dismissed the impeachment initiative, labeling it “DOA” on social media.
Impeachment processes, once rare, have become increasingly frequent in Congress. Notably, Republicans initiated an impeachment inquiry against President Joe Biden but refrained from further action, though they did impeach Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas, whose trial ended with the Senate dismissing the articles.
Thanedar’s journey from India to the U.S. has fueled his resolve to protect American institutions. His election to the Detroit congressional seat marked a significant change, as it was the first time in decades the city was represented in Congress by someone other than a Black lawmaker.
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