The US House of Representatives has voted to formalise its impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden.
The resolution, endorsed mainly by Republicans, aims to grant more investigative powers to committees probing allegations of bribery and corruption during Biden’s tenure as vice president.
The vote, split 221 to 212 in favour of the inquiry, doesn’t equate to an impeachment decision but signifies a significant step toward a potential impeachment process.
In a statement, House Speaker Mike Johnson said the chamber “will not prejudge the investigation’s outcome” but “the evidentiary record is impossible to ignore”.
President Biden denounced the proceedings as baseless and politically motivated, criticizing Congress for veering away from crucial national issues. However, the investigation, if it progresses, could severely disrupt his reelection bid.
Amid heated debates, Republicans, led by figures like Tom Cole and Kevin McCarthy, asserted the necessity of the inquiry, alleging a “culture of corruption” surrounding Biden. Democrats dismissed these claims, labeling the move as a political stunt lacking substantial evidence.
The House Oversight Committee alleges that the Biden family received millions from foreign entities, with particular focus on Hunter Biden’s dealings. They claim these transactions involve selling access and leveraging the Biden name for financial gain.
President Biden has consistently denied involvement in Hunter’s business affairs, insisting on no unethical conduct. The White House has condemned the inquiry, labeling it an abuse of power by House Republicans.
The looming threat of impeachment and its potential implications on Biden’s reputation and standing among voters are clear. As the president gears up for reelection, the specter of facing off against Donald Trump, the former president and vocal advocate for Biden’s impeachment, looms large.
The political turbulence within Capitol Hill serves as a stark reminder of the deep-rooted partisanship overshadowing critical national agendas.