This archive report was first published on 2 December 2019.
On December 2, 2019, the White House announced it would not participate in congressional hearings set to begin this week, which would consider passing impeachment articles against President Donald Trump.
According to a letter from White House counsel Pat Cipollone to Democratic Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerry Nadler, the White House cannot fairly participate in a hearing where witnesses have not been named and the fairness of the process is uncertain.
The second round of impeachment hearings was scheduled to begin on Wednesday, but the White House stated it would not intend to participate under the current circumstances.
By refusing to participate, the White House is effectively boycotting the hearings, which could impact the ability of lawmakers to gather information and make informed decisions.
