UPDATE: Next Week’s Hearing Will Initiate Koskinen Impeachment Proceedings
In an update to an earlier story, reported by Politico, the House Freedom Caucus has announced that it hasn’t backed down in its efforts to have IRS Commissioner John Koskinen removed from office.
An agreement has been reached with establishment Republicans, but it’s not exactly clear that the floor vote on impeachment will be delayed until after the Nov. 8 general election. As was previously reported, however, there will be a hearing before the House Judiciary Committee next week.
House Freedom Caucus Chairman Jim Jordan (R-Ohio) issued the following statement about that hearing:
After months of tireless efforts, the House Judiciary Committee will finally hold impeachment proceedings of IRS Commissioner John Koskinen next Wednesday.
This hearing next week will give every American the opportunity to hear John Koskinen answer under oath why he misled Congress, allowed evidence pertinent to an investigation to be destroyed, and defied Congressional subpoenas and preservation orders. It will also remove any lingering excuses for those who have been hesitant to proceed with this course of action.
For too long, Obama Administration officials have been able to get away with acts that would have dramatic consequences for ordinary Americans. The American people see two standards — one for the powerful and politically connected, and another for ordinary Americans. This is a critical opportunity for Congress to show it works for and answers to the American people.
If a floor vote does occur in the House, and Koskinen is impeached, it is highly unlikely proceedings in the Senate could begin prior to the pre-election recess, which is slated to begin Oct. 1. It also seems equally unlikely such action could be taken during a post-election “lame duck” session.
