House lawmakers voted Wednesday to authorize Speaker John Boehner (R., Ohio) to file suit against President Barack Obama on a complaint that he had overstepped his legal authority.
In a 225-201 vote, the House told Boehner to move ahead with the suit.
Prior to the vote, Boehner took to the floor to encourage other representatives to vote in favor of the lawsuit.
"Because this isn’t about Republicans and Democrats. It is about defending the Constitution that we swore an oath to uphold, and acting decisively when it may be compromised." Boehner said.
"No member of this body needs to be reminded of what the Constitution states about the president’s obligation to faithfully execute the laws of our nation. No member needs to be reminded of the bonds of trust that have been frayed, of the damage that’s already been done to our economy and to our people. Are you willing to let any president choose what laws to execute and what laws to change? Are you willing to let anyone tear apart what our Founders have built?" Boehner continued.