The U.S. House of Representatives voted 232–197 to impeach President Donald J. Trump for “incitement of insurrection,” making him the first president impeached twice. Ten Republicans joined all Democrats in support.
Speaker Nancy Pelosi signed the single article of impeachment shortly after passage, calling the action a “defense of the Constitution.” Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy condemned the violence of January 6 but argued impeachment would “further divide the nation.”
At the Capitol complex, heightened security remained in place. Over 20,000 National Guard troops were deployed ahead of the inauguration. Metal fencing ringed the grounds. Reporters moved under escort between House and Senate corridors still marked by broken glass and spray-painted walls.
In the Senate, Majority Leader Mitch McConnell announced proceedings would not begin before January 19, leaving Trump’s trial to occur after he left office. Constitutional scholars debated the legality of a post-presidency trial, but McConnell signaled openness to conviction, saying Trump “provoked” the mob.
Vice President Mike Pence declined to invoke the 25th Amendment. The White House issued no defense beyond a brief written statement urging calm.
Outside, in near-freezing air, scattered demonstrators gathered at Freedom Plaza. One sign read: “Accountability is Patriotism.”