Congressional Democrats are eager to see President Donald Trump removed from office, but they’re unsure about how and when to proceed.
Over 50 Democrats have called for Trump’s impeachment, but progress is unlikely without Republican backing. Meanwhile, some members believe Trump’s Cabinet and Vice President J.D. Vance might override him using the 25th Amendment—a measure that’s never been used in the history of its nearly 60 years since adoption.
There seems to be a disconnect among Democrats as they consider their options. For instance, Rep. Madeline Dean from Pennsylvania expressed skepticism about focusing on impeachment, emphasizing the need to gain a Senate majority first to hold Trump accountable. This perspective isn’t universally shared, as Rep. Sarah Jacobs from California insists that all potential paths should remain open.
Even among the party’s leadership, opinions diverge. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer didn’t endorse impeachment or the 25th Amendment; instead, he called for a vote on the war powers resolution to limit Trump’s actions regarding Iran. Schumer asserted that Congress must reclaim its authority during such critical moments, insisting no president should have unilateral war powers.
On a different note, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries seems to be fostering discussions about impeachment within the House, pointing to a recent caucus briefing led by Rep. Jamie Raskin on the 25th Amendment. In a letter, Jeffries criticized Trump for escalating military actions, highlighting the urgency to hold him accountable.
The 25th Amendment stipulates that Trump could only be removed with the approval of Vance, a majority of his Cabinet, and two-thirds of both Congressional houses—requirements that far exceed those for impeachment.
Despite these discussions, it looks unlikely for impeachment to gain traction in the House under the leadership of Speaker Mike Johnson. Yet, Democratic efforts continue. Last year, Rep. Al Green pushed for impeachment articles against Trump but faced opposition from nearly 20 Democrats who sided with Republicans against the effort.
Recently, Rep. John Larson filed a lengthy impeachment charge against Trump, citing various military and immigration-related actions he deemed problematic. Whether Larson will push for a vote remains uncertain, especially given his challenging primary ahead.
A few senators, including Andy Kim, Chris Murphy, and Ron Wyden, are also advocating for impeachment or the use of the 25th Amendment, with Kim suggesting Trump’s unfitness for office. Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse described these calls as “unrealistic” due to the current Cabinet’s composition, stressing the need to pursue traditional methods to effect change.
