Rep. Wittman’s statement against impeachment

WASHINGTON - Today, Jan. 13, 2021, Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-01), who represents part of the Prince William area,  issued the following statement after voting against the impeachment of President Donald J. Trump:

“What happened on January 6th is completely unacceptable, undemocratic, un-American, and criminal, and I condemn - in the strongest terms possible - the attack against the US Capitol and the United States system of government. This was a senseless attack perpetrated by misguided individuals who were led to believe that something could have been done that day that would have changed the outcome of the election. January 6th was a day that will be remembered as one of the most shameful in our Nation’s recent history.

“President Trump leaves office on January 20th - in seven days - and has promised a peaceful transition of power. My vote against impeachment in no way means I agree with the President’s actions and statements leading up to the storming and illegal entry of the Capitol building, but I believe impeaching the lame-duck President before the peaceful transition of power occurs will only further inflame emotions and further divide the Nation. Our focus now needs to be on unifying our Nation and moving forward as one, and I believe impeachment does the opposite. I am fully committed to rebuilding the trust of the nation over my next two years as your Member of Congress.

“Now is the time to turn the page. Joe Biden will be President of the United States and Kamala Harris will be our Vice President. The peaceful transition of power will occur on January 20th, just as it has every four years since 1792. I wish President-elect Joe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris the blessings of good health and sound judgement as our Nation navigates these unprecedented times. I am focused on working with their Administration to improve the lives of my constituents and all Americans.

“What we saw on January 6th is not the best of America, but I remain hopeful that our Nation can overcome these difficult times and emerge stronger. It is together that we will face the future, and we shall do so as one Nation. I promise to do my part to unite the country, help to heal our Nation, and work on solutions to America’s challenges. I am praying for our Nation as we move forward as one. May God Bless America.”

Congressman Rob Wittman represents the 1st District of Virginia. He serves on the House Natural Resources Committee and the House Armed Services Committee, where he serves as the ranking member of the Seapower and Projection Forces Subcommittee.