Clinton meets with Democrats to rally support. Minutes before the report is released, the White House issues a 75-page rebuttal. Democrats worry privately that Clinton could be further damaged by the public release of his Aug. 17 videotaped testimony. House Judiciary Committee votes along party lines to open an investigation of the charges against Clinton, the first step in the impeachment process. Paula Jones asks an appeals court to overturn a judge's dismissal of her lawsuit against Clinton.
Democrats make surprising gains in midterm elections.
Days later, Republicans begin to challenge their leadership and Speaker Newt Gingrich steps down. House Judiciary Committee Chairman Henry Hyde vows to continue with impeachment proceedings. Thirteen House prosecutors begin laying out the case for the Senate to convict Clinton and remove him from office.