U-S House votes to impeach President Trump, Peterson one of few Democratic “no” votes
The U-S House last night impeached President Donald Trump on counts of abuse of power and obstruction of Congress, sending the matter to the Senate for an expected trial.
President Trump stated, “We didn’t lose one Republican vote, and three Democrats voted for us.”
One of those Democrats was Minnesota 7th District Congressman Collin Peterson, who said in a statement, “I’m not a lawyer and am not sure what “high crimes and misdemeanors” are, but I do know that this process has not convinced the people in my district we have impeachable offenses and that the president needs to be removed.”
Peterson added, “The inquiry and hearing have been partisan and have failed in convincing the country while further placating some people who have wanted the president impeached since he was elected.”
Republican challenger, former Lieutenant Governor and state Senator Michelle Fischbach, says House Speaker Nancy Pelosi let Peterson off the hook so he can say to the voters in his district that he voted no. Speaker Pelosi said Democratic caucus leaders did not pressure rank-and-file members to vote for impeachment.
Most analysts say if Peterson runs for re-election, he’ll face a tough battle.