Congressman Gonzalez on the Closure of Impeachment Trial of President Donald J. Trump by the U.S. Senate

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) issued a statement following the U.S. Senate vote to end the impeachment trial of President Donald J. Trump on charges of Obstruction of Congress and Abuse of Power:

"Today, it is clear that the Founding Fathers' brilliantly designed system of checks and balances depends on the integrity of those in office. I fear the Senate has set a dangerous new precedent that risks the integrity of our electoral process and national security.

The facts were clear: the president of the United States solicited a foreign power to target a political opponent and interfere in our election for personal gain and evaded a lawful congressional investigation. The actions taken to withhold funds appropriated by Congress and strong-arm an ally were illegal and against the national interests of the United States.

The Senate's decision to disallow new witnesses and evidence signals a deterioration of our moral and ethical values. The consequences of today's vote will have a lasting impact on the foundations of our democracy and Constitution.

While it is a dark day, we must move forward and continue our work for the American people."