U.S. President-elect Joe Biden said he had believed for a long time that President Donald Trump was not fit for office, but it was up to Congress to decide on a second impeachment of the Republican president after Wednesday’s storming of the Capitol.
Biden told reporters Friday (January 8) that he was focused on containing the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring rapid vaccination and bolstering the economy.
“I’m focused on the virus, the vaccine and economic growth. What the Congress decides to do is, is for them to decide,” he said, when asked about legislation being readied by House Democrats to impeach Trump for his role in fomenting the violence.
Biden called for an investigation into the incident and said that Vice-President Mike Pence was welcome to attend his inauguration.
The president-elect also expressed sympathy to the family of the U.S. Capitol Police officer killed in Wednesday’s invasion, and said those responsible would be held accountable.
“The people responsible should be held accountable, and they will be,” Biden told reporters.
Federal prosecutors are opening a murder investigation after the officer, Brian Sicknick, died Thursday in the aftermath of Wednesday’s events, CNN reported on Friday, citing a law enforcement official.
(Producer: Arlene Eiras)