Gilbert Gutknecht: “this is a solemn and sober occasion. It is day and a duty that all of us had hoped we could avoid. But, this day and…”

“this is a solemn and sober occasion. It is day and a duty that all of us had hoped we could avoid. But, this day and that duty came. On historic days like this, we must draw strength from the heroic figures who have gone before us. From Valley Forge, to Gettysburg, from Normandy to this very day, Americans have found the courage to do what was required. And we, in our day, with God's help, will meet this challenge. We will stand today for the rule of law, or we will submit to the rule of men. Mr. Speaker, the matters before us are difficult, but they are not complicated. Our friends on the other side offered no real defense for the charges. Indeed, in their own resolution, they acknowledged that Mr. Clinton failed to tell the truth to a Federal Grand Jury. They agree that he has brought dishonor on himself and on the high office he holds. On several occasions, Mr. Clinton put one hand on the Bible and took an oath. Twice he pledged to "preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of the United States." As President, he has the responsibility to "take care that the laws be faithfully executed." Subsequently, Mr. Clinton swore under oath "to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth." He was warned by his supporters and his attorneys of the dire consequences of breaking that oath. As an attorney himself, Mr. Clinton understood very well the gravity of perjury. He understood the seriousness of witness tampering and obstruction of justice.”