Nick Lampson: “this morning I began writing a letter to my daughters and my future grandchildren and great-grandchildren to describe my…”

“this morning I began writing a letter to my daughters and my future grandchildren and great-grandchildren to describe my feelings on this sad, yet historic day. I wrote my daughters that I have listened to my colleagues talk about truth, wrongdoing, punishment, and respect. And I want to say to my colleagues that no one denies that the truth matters. No one denies there was wrongdoing, and no one denies that the American people deserve the respect of this great House of Representatives. And so I ask, please don't deny an alternative to impeachment. I continue to be overwhelmed by the fact that this Congress and, as a result, the American people, are being denied the right to vote on a disciplinary action that would unify our country at this critical time--this action is censure. The American people support censure. Censure, is not only constitutional, it is fair and right for our country. So, to my colleagues in the majority, I implore you in the interest of fairness to take the step that will stop this downward spiral of bitterness and rancor that currently controls Capitol Hill. As our country continues to polarize, I pray that we, as a Congress, have not lost our ability to seek common ground. For if we have, it will affect our ability to solve problems for decades to come. Mr. Speaker, you have the power to unite the majority of this country by allowing a vote on censure.”