Providing for Consideration of H. Res. Calling on Vice President Pence to Convene and Mobilize the Cabinet to Activate Section 4 of the 25th Amendment to Declare President Donald J. Trump Incapable of Executing the Duties of His Office; and for Other Purposes

Floor Speech

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Mr. RESCHENTHALER. Mr. Speaker, let me be clear about something. The violence and the rioting in our Capitol last Wednesday was tragic. It was undemocratic, and it was unacceptable. I unequivocally condemn this criminal behavior that occurred in this building.

Our great Nation is deeply divided. Unfortunately, rather than looking forward and working together on issues that actually unite our country, we are here debating a partisan issue, a partisan resolution that will only further divide us.

The Constitution is very clear on the issue we are debating. The ability to activate section 4 of the 25th Amendment lies with the Vice President and Cabinet members, Cabinet members who are vetted and confirmed by the Senate.

Congress is only drawn in, House Members are only drawn in, when the President disputes a declaration of incapacitation. That is not what is happening here. We should respect that constitutional prerogative.

Mr. Speaker, I am also perplexed by my Democrat colleagues' attempt to force the hand of a man that they clearly had faith in to run our country. They must recognize that by calling for the President's immediate resignation, they are also advocating for Vice President Mike Pence to lead our Nation. Therefore, they should have full trust in Vice President Pence's decision-making ability to act in a manner consistent with his constitutional responsibilities, just as he did last week.

Further, I am incredibly and deeply disappointed that the rule before us suspends prohibitions on engaging in personalities against the President. It is somewhat ironic. If we are truly worried about rhetoric, then we must set an example and ensure that civility and decorum remain an essential part of the American discourse.

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Mr. RESCHENTHALER. Mr. Speaker, we must set an example and ensure that civility and decorum remain an essential part of the American discourse.

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