I am glad we keep coming back to the rule of law question. I think standing for the rule of law includes the following: that the Nation's chief law enforcement officer cannot commit perjury and remain in office. The rule of law means that the Commander in Chief of our Armed Forces should not be held to a lower standard than are his subordinates. The rule of law means that even the most ordinary and humble citizens are entitled to their day in court, and they are entitled to expect sworn testimony in that court to be truthful, even testimony from the President of the United States. The rule of law means recognizing that felonious criminal conduct by the President of the United States cannot be tolerated. The rule of law is more important than the tenure in office of any elected official. During John Adams' second night in the White House he wrote these words: "I pray heaven to bestow the best of blessings on this House and on all that shall hereafter inhabit it. May none but honest and wise men ever rule this roof." Mr. Speaker, it is with great regret that I conclude the current occupant of the White House has utterly failed to live up to this standard. I cast my vote for impeachment to protect the long-term national interest of the United States, to affirm the importance of truth and honesty, and to uphold the rule of law in our Nation.
On the recordDecember 18, 1998
Source
govinfo.govEditor's note · Context
Addressing the importance of the rule of law and his vote for impeachment.
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