In a significant development, Speaker Mike Johnson has announced plans to hold a floor vote, formally establishing the House Republicans' impeachment probe of President Joe Biden. This move comes after former Speaker Kevin McCarthy had previously suggested the idea but never followed through.

Johnson and other House GOP leaders have expressed confidence in garnering sufficient Republican votes to endorse the inquiry. The speaker emphasized the necessity of the House's approval for an impeachment resolution, as well as an accompanying measure that outlines subpoena powers for the three committees overseeing the investigation.

Former senior aide Aaron Cutler, echoing sentiments among Republicans, stated that "the speaker is trying to put the impeachment inquiry on the most solid legal footing possible, given the upcoming presidential election."

According to Johnson, the House's action is prompted by allegations of stonewalling from the White House and the Biden administration. The speaker argued that with their refusal to cooperate and allow key witnesses to testify, it has become imperative to pursue an impeachment inquiry: "We must be very methodical and careful and follow the facts where they lead."

It is worth noting that McCarthy had made similar arguments earlier this year but never took steps toward a floor vote. However, one of the key factors contributing to the change in House Republicans' stance is the appointment of a new speaker. Johnson has managed to unite members from various factions within the party and gain their support. Both moderate and conservative Republicans, who had reservations about McCarthy's approach, appear more willing to move the inquiry forward under Johnson's leadership.

Two recent developments have also played a role in influencing House Republicans' opinions. Firstly, the growing legal troubles of President Biden's son, Hunter Biden, who was indicted last week on federal tax charges, are perceived as politically damaging. This provides cover for members from swing districts to lend their support to the impeachment inquiry. Secondly, the enduring strength of former President Donald Trump in the 2024 GOP primary has made loyalty to him crucial for many Republicans.

With Trump leading the nomination race and the Iowa caucuses scheduled for January 15, House Republicans recognize the importance of aligning with his agenda. This consideration weighs heavily on the minds of moderate GOP members who won re-election in districts previously held by Biden. They are wary of potential primary challengers from the right, should they diverge from the party line.

To sway moderates in favor of the impeachment inquiry, pressure tactics are being employed. Representative Byron Donalds of Florida appeared on Fox News, highlighting the need for those who supported the expulsion of Representative George Santos to also back the impeachment inquiry. Donalds emphasized the gravity of the accusations against the Biden family, asserting that the American people deserve answers.

While some moderate Republicans have faced pressure regarding their stance, there is still an expectation that they will vote in favor of the formal impeachment inquiry. Speaker Johnson has underscored that this decision is rooted in legality and constitutionality, rather than politics.

The vote on the impeachment inquiry is expected to take place later this week. While the speaker has expressed confidence, it remains to be seen if he can secure the necessary 218 votes for authorization.

As the impeachment proceedings gain momentum, the focus will soon shift to the Judiciary Committee, chaired by Representative Jim Jordan. The committee is expected to take the lead in further investigating President Biden and potentially moving towards impeachment.

In the meantime, the Congressional Integrity Project, a nonprofit organization critical of the House Republicans' investigations into the Bidens, has launched an advertising campaign aimed at persuading moderate Republicans to prioritize issues like healthcare and the cost of living instead of pursuing what they deem as an evidence-free impeachment.

While Johnson's vote-counting operation has faltered before, resulting in the withdrawal of spending bills from the floor, there is optimism that he has secured enough support among moderate Republicans. As House Republicans make their final preparations for the impending vote, the administration's noncompliance with lawful subpoenas continues to be cited as a key reason for pursuing the impeachment inquiry.

In this pivotal moment, the House Republicans are poised to take a definitive stance as they seek to uncover the truth behind the allegations against President Biden. The impeachment inquiry, if authorized, will undoubtedly shape the political landscape leading up to the 2024 presidential election and test the unity of the Republican Party.