Republican lawmakers who voted for the Clinton impeachment argued that even though it only concerned his private life, a President who commits perjury and obstructs justice is subverting the rule of law, and that subversion becomes a “high crime.” On perjury, 45 Republican senators voted to convict while 45 Democrats and 10 Republicans voted for acquittal. On obstruction of justice, 50 Republicans voted for conviction while 45 Democrats and 5 Republicans voted for acquittal.
Clinton impeachment refers to the impeachment trial of former President Bill Clinton, who was charged with lying under oath and obstructing justice. Clinton was acquitted and remained in office.