Speed Read / Developments at a Glance

Rep. Bill McCollum (R-Fla.) began the days proceedings by arguing that witness tampering and obstruction of justice are among the most serious crimes that can be committed. Using Monica S. Lewinsky’s testimony from the Starr report, McCollum sought to prove the president’s guilt in reference to the charges.

Rep. George W. Gekas (R-Pa.) stressed the importance of upholding the judicial system in order to protect the rights of average American citizens. “When you combine all the features of the actions of the president of the United States you see that they are funnelled and tunnelled and aimed and targeted towards obliterating from the landscape the rights of Paula Jones, a fellow American citizen.”

Rep. Steve Chabot (R-Ohio) summarized the laws and elements of perjury and stated that the president’s “actions and demeanor make the case that President Clinton knowingly and willingly lied under oath in a grand jury proceeding and in a civil deposition.” Chabot also said perjury gave offense because it “strikes a terrible blow against the machinery of justice in this country.”

Rep. Chris Cannon (R-Utah) discussed the legal definition of obstruction of justice and referred to legal precedent in making his case. “The fact that some instances of the president’s misconduct occurred in the course of a civil proceeding does not absolve him of criminal liability,” he said.

Rep. Bob Barr (R-Ga) related specific instances in which the House managers felt the president violated the laws against witness tampering, obstruction of justice and perjury. Barr stated the evidence against the president was “overwhelming” and that any circumstantial evidence should not be given any less weight than direct evidence.

Today’s Schedule

* To discuss what constitutes an impeachable offense: Lindsey O. Graham (R-S.C) Charles T. Canady (R-Fla.) Stephen E. Buyer (R-Ind.)

* To summarize the case to impeach the president: James E. Rogan (R-Glendale) Henry J. Hyde (R-Ill.)