The United States House of Representatives is set to launch an official impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden, as revealed by the most senior member of the Republican Party.
Kevin McCarthy disclosed that the investigation will focus on allegations of abuse of power, obstruction, and corruption by Biden.
The Republican Party has been investigating the president since they took control of the House in January. However, their inquiries have not yielded concrete evidence of wrongdoing by Biden.
The report also emphasizes the business dealings of the president’s son, Hunter Biden, which the Republican Party finds questionable, and Biden’s knowledge of his son’s activities. In a brief statement at the US Capitol, McCarthy stated that there are serious and credible allegations involving the president’s behavior.
“In total, these allegations paint a picture of a culture of corruption,” he said, as quoted from BBC International on Wednesday, September 13, 2023.
Upon hearing this, the White House quickly condemned McCarthy’s decision. “Republican members of the House of Representatives have been investigating the President for nine months, and they have found no evidence of wrongdoing,” wrote White House spokesperson Ian Sams in a social media post.
Hunter Biden is currently under federal investigation for possible tax-related crimes related to his foreign business interests.
McCarthy, a California congressman, also alleged that the Biden family has received special treatment from government officials conducting investigations. However, the White House denied any involvement in Hunter Biden’s case and stated that the President has no connection to his son’s business operations.
This investigation will grant Congress investigators greater legal authority to probe the president, including issuing court subpoenas to obtain documents and testimonies that can be more easily enforced in court.
For reference, the US Constitution states that a president can be impeached for treason, bribery, or other high crimes and misdemeanors, which could result in removal from office.
However, any attempt to remove President Biden is likely to be unsuccessful.
The House of Representatives, where Republicans hold a slim majority of 222-212, would need to vote in favor. It would then proceed to the Senate for a trial and vote.
The Democratic Party has the majority in the Senate and is almost certain to block the trial process if it reaches that stage.
