House approves impeachment rules, ushering in new phase of inquiry — live updates

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A resolution authorizing public hearings and laying the groundwork for eventual proceedings in the Judiciary Committee passed by a vote of 232 to 196. All but two Democrats voted for the measure, with all Republican members voting against it. The chamber’s sole independent joined Democrats in voting for passage. Three Republicans and one Democrat did not cast a vote.

The vote was the first time the full House weighed in on the impeachment inquiry, after weeks of Republican objections that Democrats were proceeding without a floor vote on the merits of the probe. Democrats dismissed those criticisms and argued such a vote to open an inquiry is not required under the Constitution, but introduced Thursday’s resolution nonetheless, stressing the inquiry is already underway.

The resolution approved Thursday authorizes the House Intelligence Committee to hold public hearings and craft a report to be delivered to the Judiciary Committee, where President Trump and his counsel will have the right to cross examine witnesses and review evidence. Republicans can request testimony from witnesses in either committee, subject to approval of the Democratic chairman or a full committee vote.

10:59 a.m.: As the House began a procedural vote, Mr. Trump — who is at the White House with no events on his public schedule Thursday — tweeted that the impeachment proceedings are hurting the stock market.

11:34 a.m.: Moments after Pelosi announced the passage of the resolution, the president fired off a tweet and the White House issued a lengthy statement objecting to the Democrats’ impeachment process.

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