October 22, 2019 - Issue: Vol. 165, No. 167 — Daily Edition116th Congress (2019 - 2020) - 1st Session

[Pages H8379-H8380]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              DUE PROCESS CRITICAL TO IMPEACHMENT INQUIRY

  (Mr. SPANO asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 
minute.)

[[Page H8380]]

  

  Mr. SPANO. Madam Speaker, due process is a right so important that we 
have not one but two constitutional amendments to ensure it.
  Past impeachment inquiries began with a resolution to define scope, 
to establish rules and procedures, and to give equal subpoena power to 
the minority. These due process protections are critical because 
removing a President is one of the most serious decisions Congress can 
make.
  But last week, the Democratic Caucus chair dismissed our pleas for a 
resolution to formalize the impeachment inquiry as a ``cosmetic 
procedural matter.'' Cosmetic. Since when did fairness in this country 
become cosmetic?
  Democrats point to the Constitution in undertaking this inquiry, but 
look at how it is being handled. There is no due process. The accused 
is presumed guilty. There is no right to confront your accuser. All 
proceedings are taking place in secret.
  The only reason for secret hearings is to control what people see and 
what they hear. This sham process disregards the fundamental rights our 
country is founded on, and the American people deserve more.

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