Classic English Speech 13Barbara Jordan Statement on the Articles of Impeachment "If the impeachment provision in the Constitution of the United States will not reach the offenses charged here th

selves?" The subjects of its jurisdiction are those offenses which proceed from the misconduct of public men. And that's what we're talking about. In other words, from the abuse or violation of some public trust.

It is wrong, I suggest, it is a misreading of the Constitution for any member here to assert that for a member to vote for an article of impeachment means that that member must be convinced that the President should be removed from office. The Constitution doesn't say that. The powers relating to impeachment are an essential check in the hands of this body, the legislature, against and upon the encroachment of the executive. Therefore, a member here, a member of Congress, a member of this committee, has a responsibility in terms of the Constitution, to determine whether or not the President's conduct fits the standard of impeachable offense.

I've listened with interest to the gentleman from Ohio, Mr. Sensenbrenner, and I think that he and I agree on the necessity for maintaining the standard of high moral conduct and ethical behavior as a matter of law and as a matter of respect for the high office of President of the United States. But I differ with him on his interpretation of the appropriate use of the impeachment power. This, I believe, is one of the most important issues that we have faced in the last 300 years.

The American people have got to know whether or not their President is a crook. Well, I'm not a crook. I've earned everything I've got. I'm not a wealthy man. I've had to earn everything I've got. I am not a crook. And I think it's important for the American people to know that.

I thank you, Mr. Chairman