Update: The second day of the trial is underway where the Democrats are now arguing how Trump abused his power and why.
Trump’s impeachment trial has begun, and both Republicans and Democrats say that the process has been “unfair.” Both are arguing lack of evidence, time and due process. As of this moment, there has been little evidence from both sides.
“There isn’t a witness on either side that you can call that can inject fairness and due process into a process that had none,” said Rep. John Ratcliffe in an interview with Fox News. He went on to say that Nixon’s lawyers had more time to bring forth evidence and work with him every step of the way. According to John, who announced he will join Trump’s legal team, said that out of the 78 day process Trump’s lawyers have only had 7 to work with the president.
There has been much controversy and talk of impeachment since day one for Trump. The constitution lists that “treason, bribery, or other high crimes and misdemeanors,” are impeachable offenses. Currently in questions for abuse of power and obstruction of congress, Some have questioned “high crimes and misdemeanors,” as being to vague.
“It’s only happened twice and so the general thought is that it means whatever the House and the Senate think it means,” Said Suzanne Sherry, a law professor in constitutional law, in an article from ABC news. It is stated in the constitution that the senate does have the right to call the president and hold trial for impeachment. During this trial however, no senator is allowed to speak.
What this means for the elections
As stated in another article here, Trump’s approval ratings are still high with 42.3% approval rating. If this is handled poorly by the democrats it will be a major blow to the party.
Since no solid evidence has been brought forth yet and we are still in the arguments for how to run the trial, it is still too early to say what will happen. One thing is certain, if Trump is acquitted this will possibly discredit the democratic party for the upcoming elections. Trump will also use this to reinforce the views of the trial as a “witch hunt.”
