David Minge: “I joined 30 Democrats in casting a controversial vote last month. I voted to send the Starr report to the Committee on…”

“I joined 30 Democrats in casting a controversial vote last month. I voted to send the Starr report to the Committee on the Judiciary without strict time or subject matter restrictions. I was committed to avoiding partisanship. Tragically, however, that effort to advance nonpartisan consideration of this momentous impeachment decision is today rejected. Three quick points. One, the people's body is denying the people a vote on the alternative they favor, censure. Two, proportionality demands consideration of the alternative of censure, proportionality in the sense of the offenses alleged and the consequences sought. Three, my Republican friends, they have even refused to accept the advice of President Ford and Presidential candidate Dole that we proceed with a censure or rebuke alternative. This is a tragic day when this option is denied us. Mr. Speaker, over the past several months, the news media has inundated us with continuous coverage of President Clinton's conduct. Over the past several weeks, the House Judiciary Committee has held hearings, considered evidence, and debated the merits of impeaching the President. Regretfully, the issue has distracted us from many serious problems that confront our nation and the world. Equally regrettable is the highly partisan nature that has characterized this process. I have endeavored to avoid this partisanship.”