Democrat Susan Wild, who represents the Lehigh Valley in the U.S. House, said Tuesday she will vote for the articles of impeachment against President Donald Trump.
The articles accuse Trump of abuse of power and obstruction of Congress as a result of his dealings with Ukrainian leaders. The House Judiciary Committee is expected to vote this week and the full House before Christmas.
The vote puts Wild and other Democrats representing competitive House districts in a politically uncomfortable position. The Lehigh Valley’s 7th District is a top 2020 target for both major political parties. Republicans need to win back such moderate districts to have a shot at regaining a majority in the House.
Here is Wild’s full statement:
“It is with sincere sorrow that I will be voting in support of the articles of impeachment introduced this morning against President Donald Trump.
“I did not come to Congress to impeach the president. I ran for office to bring down health care and prescription drug costs, raise wages, fix our trade agreements, rebuild our infrastructure, combat the opioid epidemic, and expand opportunity for my children and yours.
“But my most important responsibility is to uphold my oath of office to defend and protect the Constitution. And after thoroughly reviewing the testimony and evidence presented over the past several weeks, from career professionals and Trump Administration appointees alike, it is beyond clear to me that President Trump, through his interactions with Ukraine — an ally under attack by Russia — abused the powers of his office to put his own political interests above the interests of the American people.
“To make matters worse, President Trump then deliberately obstructed Congress’s constitutional oversight responsibilities — an egregious violation of our system of checks and balances and a betrayal of the vision set forth by our founding fathers of a government composed of three coequal branches.
“Make no mistake: this is by no means an easy decision. Throughout this process I was patient and deliberative, speaking out only when the president left me no choice but to do so. The House of Representatives must now conclude this process swiftly, and it is my hope that the Senate will conduct an impartial and expeditious trial — putting their dedication to our Constitution above partisan loyalties.
“I have heard from many constituents across the 7th District on this issue. It is important to me that they know that I carefully considered their perspectives, although I am aware that some among them will inevitably disagree with the decision I have come to. Moving forward, I will continue to work with my Republican and Democratic colleagues to tackle the priorities of the Greater Lehigh Valley. While today is a solemn one in the history of our country, we must work together to ensure a brighter tomorrow. I am honored to play a part in that effort, and I will keep working to unify all Americans so that we can build a better life for our children and for generations to come.”
