Nearly two dozen House Democrats sided with Republicans on Thursday to block an impeachment resolution against President Donald Trump, effectively stopping the effort from advancing.
The articles of impeachment, introduced by Rep. Al Green of Texas, were opposed by 23 Democrats, while another 47 voted “present.” A majority of House Democrats—140 lawmakers—voted against tabling the resolution. Republicans overwhelmingly supported the motion to table, with 214 voting in favor and six not voting.
Why It Matters
Despite sustained criticism of Trump and his administration from Democrats, many remain reluctant to pursue impeachment. Past impeachment efforts are widely viewed as politically counterproductive, and with Republicans controlling both chambers of Congress, any new attempt would almost certainly fail. Critics of the resolution argue that such moves amount to symbolism rather than a viable path to accountability.
What to Know
Green’s resolution outlined two articles of impeachment. The first accused Trump of abusing presidential power by calling for the “execution of members of Congress” in response to a video posted by several Democratic lawmakers. Trump had written “SEDITIOUS BEHAVIOR, punishable by DEATH” on Truth Social, a comment that sparked backlash. The White House later said Trump was not calling for executions.
The second article alleged that Trump undermined judicial independence by attacking federal judges online, actions the resolution claimed contributed to threats of violence against members of the judiciary.
The effort was widely expected to fail. Green has introduced similar resolutions in the past without success, and Democratic leadership publicly opposed the move ahead of the vote.
Democratic Leadership Pushes Back
In a joint statement, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Democratic Whip Katherine Clark, and Democratic Caucus Chair Pete Aguilar said impeachment is a serious constitutional mechanism that requires extensive investigation, evidence-gathering, and public deliberation—steps they argued had not been taken in this case.
They added that Democratic leaders would vote “present” on the motion to table while focusing on legislative priorities aimed at lowering costs for Americans.
Green Defends His Move
After filing the articles, Green said on the House floor that Trump should be impeached and acknowledged resistance within Congress. Invoking the civil rights movement, he said that progress often requires pressing forward despite opposition, adding that he would continue his efforts.
Other Impeachment Efforts
This week, Democrats also introduced impeachment articles against two Trump cabinet officials—Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.—though those initiatives are also unlikely to advance.
A History of Failed Convictions
Trump has been impeached twice by the House. The first, in December 2019, centered on allegations that he withheld congressionally approved aid to Ukraine to pressure a political rival. The second followed the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol. Although the latter drew some Republican support, neither impeachment resulted in a Senate conviction, which requires a two-thirds majority.
Democrats Who Voted to Table the Resolution
- Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (Florida)
- Jim Costa (California)
- Jason Crow (Colorado)
- Henry Cuellar (Texas)
- Sharice Davids (Kansas)
- Donald G. Davis (North Carolina)
- Shomari Figures (Alabama)
- Jared Golden (Maine)
- Vicente Gonzalez (Texas)
- Maggie Goodlander (New Hampshire)
- Josh Gottheimer (New Jersey)
- Adam Gray (California)
- Rick Larsen (Washington)
- Susie Lee (Nevada)
- Kristen McDonald Rivet (Michigan)
- Jimmy Panetta (California)
- Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (Washington)
- Josh Riley (New York)
- Hillary J. Scholten (Michigan)
- Kim Schrier (Washington)
- Greg Stanton (Arizona)
- Thomas R. Suozzi (New York)
- Eugene Simon Vindman (Virginia)
What People Are Saying
House Democratic leaders said Trump’s behavior continues to threaten public safety and economic stability, while accusing Republicans of refusing to hold the administration accountable.
Trump, addressing the latest impeachment attempt at a rally earlier this year, dismissed it as another baseless effort, questioning why it was being pursued at all.
What Happens Next
With Republicans in control of Congress, none of the impeachment efforts are expected to move forward. Should Democrats regain the House in 2026, investigations—and potentially impeachment proceedings—could return to the agenda.
