Rep. Steve Cohen Introduces New Impeachment Articles Against Trump

House Democrat Steve Cohen introduced 26 new articles of impeachment against former President Donald Trump. These articles accuse Trump of power abuses, violating his oath, and various alleged misconducts. This action follows a previous failed impeachment attempt by Democrat Al Green of Texas.

Cohen, a senior member of the House Judiciary Committee, announced the articles on September 24. This move came just nine days after Green’s impeachment effort was rejected in a 232-147 vote. Eighteen Democrats joined Republicans to table Green’s resolution, and 47 others voted present, including House Democratic leaders.

The issues in Cohen’s resolution are broad, including allegations about Trump’s policies on immigration, military power, federal spending, tariffs, presidential pardons, and more. Key accusations involve undermining democracy by undermining elections and waging war on Iran without congressional approval. Additional allegations address extrajudicial actions in international waters off Venezuela and military deployments to U.S. cities.

Immigration and Presidential Powers

Immigration policy stands out in the resolution. Cohen targets Trump’s executive order on birthright citizenship and actions under the Alien Enemies Act, specifically concerning deportations to El Salvador. The articles also revisit the conditions in El Salvador’s CECOT prison and charge the administration with defying court orders.

Other accusations involve withholding funds, imposing loyalty tests on federal employees, and misusing pardon powers. Further allegations include actions against the media, law firms, and universities. Two articles claim Trump attacked press freedom by excluding certain reporters and influencing editorial content.

“Trump is clearly the most impeachable President our country has ever endured. His continued presence in office is a danger to our democracy,” Cohen stated in a release.

Cohen recognized the slim chances of advancement for his resolution, but affirmed his commitment to stand against what he described as Trump’s lawlessness.

Democratic Disunity on Impeachment

The resolution highlights discord among Democrats about pursuing impeachment. Green’s earlier attempt focused primarily on the Trump administration’s aggressive immigration enforcement, which included civilian casualties. Democratic leaders emphasized that any impeachment should be based on formal investigations, which had yet to occur.

Previous efforts from both Cohen and Green date back to Trump’s first term. Cohen proposed impeachment articles in 2017, stressing constitutional integrity. Green raised objections to conduct he believed incited division. Trump’s actual impeachments happened later, linked to Ukraine dealings and the January 6 Capitol riot.

Cohen’s current articles alone don’t equate to impeachment. The House must approve articles for the impeachment process to advance. With the House under Republican control and Democratic unity lacking, Cohen’s resolution faces significant challenges.