House Votes to Formally Approve Biden Impeachment Inquiry

The House of Representatives voted to approve a formal impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden.

For Context: In September, then-House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) directed three House committees to begin an impeachment inquiry against Biden. Wednesday’s party-line vote elevates the inquiry and grants the investigators’ increased subpoena authority.

The Allegations: Republican lawmakers allege that while serving as Vice President, Biden used his position to enrich himself and his family through influence peddling schemes overseas involving his son, Hunter Biden.

The Evidence: Outlets across the spectrum reported on the present findings of the House Oversight Committee’s impeachment probe with similar language. The New York Times (Lean Left bias) reported the investigation has “failed to produce evidence of anything approaching high crimes or misdemeanors.” The Hill (Center bias) reported that GOP lawmakers have “struggled to back the most salacious allegation.” The Washington Examiner (Lean Right bias) reported the investigation has so far been “unable to produce conclusive evidence to prove existing allegations.”

Key Quotes: Rep. Jim McGovern (D-MA) accused Republicans of “weaponizing and abusing impeachment, one of the most somber and serious things that Congress can do, to attack President Joe Biden.” Rep. Kelly Armstrong (R-ND) stated, “My colleagues on the other side of the aisle have an innocent explanation for every single incident. The problem is it is very difficult to see an innocent explanation for all of the incidents.”

How the Media Covered It: Left-rated outlets included less details regarding the allegations made against Biden than right-rated outlets.