Political Quotes

“as an American who cares deeply about our Constitution, I rise in opposition to this impeachment process. This is a difficult time for our Nation. The impeachment of a president has happened only once before in history. I cast my vote against impeachment solemnly, after serious study and many hours of soul searching. It has been especially difficult to watch this issue come before the House of Representatives while our American troops are at war against Saddam Hussein. Impeachment is the most constitutional power given to Congress. It is the first step in overturning a democratically held election and removing the President. When Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, and the other framers of our Constitution adopted the impeachment mechanism, they spoke of it as an alternative to assassination or a military coup, to be used only for treason, bribery of other high crimes against the government. I believe that the President's actions, while immoral and irresponsible, were not treasonous, and do not meet the high test of impeachment as intended by our Founders. Make no mistake. The President's behavior is indefensible. He did not tell the truth about his actions, and he should be held accountable for his behavior. I strongly believe that the best way to do this--in fact the only constitutional alternative--is through censure and a stiff fine.”