Political Quotes

“Mr. President, I was a Member of the House of Representatives at the time the Articles of Impeachment were proffered against Judge G. Thomas Porteous, Jr. On March 11, 2010, I voted in favor of all four Articles of Impeachment in the House, as recorded in rollcall votes 102, 103, 104, and 105. I have given careful consideration to this matter and consulted with other Members of the Senate about the Senate's historical practice. Because I believe the judge is entitled to a full and fair hearing in the Senate and to avoid any possible conflict of interest, I have concluded that under the circumstances, it would be inappropriate for me to participate in the Senate trial and vote again on matters related to the impeachment, having already done so as a Member of the House of Representatives. Therefore, I request that I be recused from sitting as a Member of the Senate while it hears the matter of impeachment proceedings against Judge Porteous. The PRESIDENT pro tempore. Mr. Kirk is excused from further participation in this impeachment for the reasons stated. The majority leader is recognized.”