House starts historic session to impeach Trump; GOP stalls

(AP) WASHINGTON, D.C. – The House has gaveled in for a historic session to impeach President Donald Trump. He faces charges he abused his power and obstructed Congress. Speaker Nancy Pelosi asked Democratic lawmakers to gather for what she calls a “solemn” session Wednesday. As soon as it opened, Republicans tried to halt the proceedings with a procedural vote. It was defeated on a party-line vote. There will be at least six hours of debate, with votes on the articles of impeachment expected by evening. Trump tweeted his outrage, saying, “I DID NOTHING WRONG!” A tally compiled by The Associated Press shows Pelosi has the votes to approve the charges. That would sent the charges to the Senate for a trial expected in early January.