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Impeachment live updates: Democrats accuse Trump of criminal bribery, wire fraud in report that explains articles of impeachment Impeachment live updates: Democrats accuse Trump of criminal bribery, wire fraud in report that explains articles of impeachment
(32 minutes later)
Democrats accused President Trump of “multiple federal crimes,” including bribery and wire fraud, in a new report released early Monday that explains the articles of impeachment that the House is expected to approve mostly along party lines Wednesday.Democrats accused President Trump of “multiple federal crimes,” including bribery and wire fraud, in a new report released early Monday that explains the articles of impeachment that the House is expected to approve mostly along party lines Wednesday.
A trial will probably begin in the Republican-led Senate in early January, and Democrats are seeking to call several senior Trump administration officials who did not testify as part of the House proceedings.A trial will probably begin in the Republican-led Senate in early January, and Democrats are seeking to call several senior Trump administration officials who did not testify as part of the House proceedings.
At the heart of the Democrats’ case is the allegation that Trump tried to leverage a White House meeting and military aid, sought by Ukraine to combat Russian military aggression, to pressure Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to launch an investigation of former vice president Joe Biden and his son Hunter Biden, as well as a probe of an unfounded theory that Kyiv conspired with Democrats to interfere in the 2016 presidential election.At the heart of the Democrats’ case is the allegation that Trump tried to leverage a White House meeting and military aid, sought by Ukraine to combat Russian military aggression, to pressure Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to launch an investigation of former vice president Joe Biden and his son Hunter Biden, as well as a probe of an unfounded theory that Kyiv conspired with Democrats to interfere in the 2016 presidential election.
●Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer (D-N.Y.) calls for testimony from acting White House chief of staff Mick Mulvaney, former national security adviser John Bolton.●Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer (D-N.Y.) calls for testimony from acting White House chief of staff Mick Mulvaney, former national security adviser John Bolton.
●Trump goes after the teeth of House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.).●Trump goes after the teeth of House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.).
●Freshman Democrats push to make Rep. Justin Amash (I-Mich.) an impeachment manager.●Freshman Democrats push to make Rep. Justin Amash (I-Mich.) an impeachment manager.
How impeachment works | House resolution impeaching Trump | House Judiciary Committee’s impeachment report| Which House members support impeaching TrumpHow impeachment works | House resolution impeaching Trump | House Judiciary Committee’s impeachment report| Which House members support impeaching Trump
When Rep. Elise Stefanik ran for reelection in 2016, observers dubbed her “the tightrope walker” for the way she delicately tiptoed around the question of Donald Trump.
She had once insisted he could never win the Republican nomination. Once he did, she kept him at a careful distance — acknowledging, when pressed, that she supported the man at the top of her party’s ticket while generally avoiding any mention of his name.
Three years later, with Trump’s presidency on the line, Stefanik (R-N.Y.) shot to his defense with all the subtlety of a human cannonball.
Read more here.
At a White House roundtable with governors on regulation, Trump mentioned that South Dakota Gov. Kristi L. Noem (R) had asked him to do her a “favor” and help her bring back the annual Mount Rushmore fireworks display, which was canceled in 2009 because of environmental and other concerns.
Trump’s use of the word “favor” echoed his now-famous comment to Zelensky during the July phone call in which he asked Ukraine to investigate the Bidens.
“Nobody knows why, but you just couldn’t have it,” Trump said Monday at the White House roundtable, referring to the cancellation of the annual fireworks display. “And now you’re going to have fireworks. And the governor called, and she said, ‘You’ve got to do me a favor.’ Right?”
“And you did,” Noem said.
“And we worked it out, and we got it done, and you’re going to have fireworks,” Trump said.
Trump had announced in a May tweet that “THE BIG FIREWORKS” were returning to Mount Rushmore in 2020.
According to South Dakota-based Keloland News, the fireworks displays were called off a decade ago over concerns that they may have contaminated the local water supply as well as the threat of forest fires.
Freshman Rep. Andy Kim (N.J.) is the latest Democrat to back impeachment.Freshman Rep. Andy Kim (N.J.) is the latest Democrat to back impeachment.
In a Monday statement, Kim described this week’s House vote as a “singular” decision that will “determine the very framework of our democracy, what constitutes acceptable behavior by future presidents, and the kind of country our children and grandchildren will grow up in.”In a Monday statement, Kim described this week’s House vote as a “singular” decision that will “determine the very framework of our democracy, what constitutes acceptable behavior by future presidents, and the kind of country our children and grandchildren will grow up in.”
“I give you my sincere word that I made this decision myself with no consideration about party affiliation, and I am fully committed to continuing to bridge across partisanship and get real things done for our community to lower health care and prescription drug costs, support our military and our veterans, create jobs, and prioritize the needs of your families,” Kim said.“I give you my sincere word that I made this decision myself with no consideration about party affiliation, and I am fully committed to continuing to bridge across partisanship and get real things done for our community to lower health care and prescription drug costs, support our military and our veterans, create jobs, and prioritize the needs of your families,” Kim said.
The two most vulnerable Democrats representing Virginia in Congress say they will vote to impeach Trump, complicating their quest for reelection in districts that voted for the president in 2016.The two most vulnerable Democrats representing Virginia in Congress say they will vote to impeach Trump, complicating their quest for reelection in districts that voted for the president in 2016.
Rep. Abigail Spanberger of the Richmond suburbs cited the oath she took to protect and defend the Constitution when she confirmed on Monday that she will vote for articles of impeachment on Wednesday.Rep. Abigail Spanberger of the Richmond suburbs cited the oath she took to protect and defend the Constitution when she confirmed on Monday that she will vote for articles of impeachment on Wednesday.
Rep. Elaine Luria of Virginia Beach made a similar reference to her oath of office when she announced her decision late last week.Rep. Elaine Luria of Virginia Beach made a similar reference to her oath of office when she announced her decision late last week.
Read more here.Read more here.
Rep. Collin C. Peterson, a conservative Democrat from a Minnesota district that Trump carried by 31 points in 2016, said he had been asked “by the highest levels of the Republican Party” to switch parties but refused.Rep. Collin C. Peterson, a conservative Democrat from a Minnesota district that Trump carried by 31 points in 2016, said he had been asked “by the highest levels of the Republican Party” to switch parties but refused.
“There have been overtures by the highest levels of the Republican Party in the last couple weeks to ask if I would consider it and I told them no,” he said during an interview with Fargo-based radio station KFGO.“There have been overtures by the highest levels of the Republican Party in the last couple weeks to ask if I would consider it and I told them no,” he said during an interview with Fargo-based radio station KFGO.
First elected to the House in 1990, Peterson was one of just two Democrats to vote against starting a formal impeachment inquiry. He has indicated he will probably vote against impeaching Trump but told KFGO that he had no intention of changing parties.First elected to the House in 1990, Peterson was one of just two Democrats to vote against starting a formal impeachment inquiry. He has indicated he will probably vote against impeaching Trump but told KFGO that he had no intention of changing parties.
“I’m staying in the party, in spite of some of the stuff that’s going on that I don’t agree with,” he said. “I am not going to switch parties at this stage of my career.”“I’m staying in the party, in spite of some of the stuff that’s going on that I don’t agree with,” he said. “I am not going to switch parties at this stage of my career.”
In an exchange with reporters at the White House on Monday, Trump defended Rudolph W. Giuliani, his personal attorney.In an exchange with reporters at the White House on Monday, Trump defended Rudolph W. Giuliani, his personal attorney.
The president called Giuliani “the greatest mayor of the history of New York” and “probably the greatest crime fighter of the last 50 years.”The president called Giuliani “the greatest mayor of the history of New York” and “probably the greatest crime fighter of the last 50 years.”
“He’s a great person who loves our country, and he does this out of love, believe me. He does it out of love,” Trump said, referring to Giuliani’s recent trip to Ukraine.“He’s a great person who loves our country, and he does this out of love, believe me. He does it out of love,” Trump said, referring to Giuliani’s recent trip to Ukraine.
Asked what Giuliani told him about the Ukraine trip, Trump responded, “Not too much.”Asked what Giuliani told him about the Ukraine trip, Trump responded, “Not too much.”
Earlier Monday, William Webster, a former director of both the FBI and the CIA who served under presidents from both parties, said in a New York Times op-ed that Giuliani’s activities in Ukraine “have, at a minimum, failed the smell test of propriety.”Earlier Monday, William Webster, a former director of both the FBI and the CIA who served under presidents from both parties, said in a New York Times op-ed that Giuliani’s activities in Ukraine “have, at a minimum, failed the smell test of propriety.”
Giuliani, meanwhile, said in an interview with Sinclair Broadcast Group host Eric Bolling that the House’s articles of impeachment against Trump are “ridiculous” and argued that his conversations with Trump are protected by attorney-client privilege.Giuliani, meanwhile, said in an interview with Sinclair Broadcast Group host Eric Bolling that the House’s articles of impeachment against Trump are “ridiculous” and argued that his conversations with Trump are protected by attorney-client privilege.
“First of all, they’re not crimes at all,” Giuliani said of Trump’s actions, according to an excerpt of the interview released Monday. “Abuse of power is not a crime. And what was the other thing? Obstructing Congress? A Congress that doesn’t do anything? What are you obstructing them in doing? Impeaching?”“First of all, they’re not crimes at all,” Giuliani said of Trump’s actions, according to an excerpt of the interview released Monday. “Abuse of power is not a crime. And what was the other thing? Obstructing Congress? A Congress that doesn’t do anything? What are you obstructing them in doing? Impeaching?”
Rep. Gil Cisneros (D-Calif.) said in a statement that he will support articles of impeachment against Trump.Rep. Gil Cisneros (D-Calif.) said in a statement that he will support articles of impeachment against Trump.
Cisneros had joined six other freshman House Democrats in September in calling for the chamber to begin impeachment proceedings.Cisneros had joined six other freshman House Democrats in September in calling for the chamber to begin impeachment proceedings.
“Following the focused investigative process by the Intelligence and Judiciary Committees, the facts are before Congress and the American people,” Cisneros said. “The President betrayed his oath to support and defend the Constitution by attempting to undermine the integrity of our elections for his own personal benefit. He asked a foreign government to investigate a political rival, and he endangered our national security by withholding taxpayer-funded military aid that was meant to be used to counter Russian aggression against an American ally.”“Following the focused investigative process by the Intelligence and Judiciary Committees, the facts are before Congress and the American people,” Cisneros said. “The President betrayed his oath to support and defend the Constitution by attempting to undermine the integrity of our elections for his own personal benefit. He asked a foreign government to investigate a political rival, and he endangered our national security by withholding taxpayer-funded military aid that was meant to be used to counter Russian aggression against an American ally.”
He added that “this is not about personal politics or party affiliation. It is about upholding my oath to put our country and our Constitution first and protect our national security.”He added that “this is not about personal politics or party affiliation. It is about upholding my oath to put our country and our Constitution first and protect our national security.”
At a Capitol news conference Monday afternoon, Schumer renewed his call for several senior Trump administration officials to testify and publicly pressed Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) on the matter.At a Capitol news conference Monday afternoon, Schumer renewed his call for several senior Trump administration officials to testify and publicly pressed Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) on the matter.
“Trials have witnesses!” Schumer declared, adding that “to engage a trial without the facts coming out is to engage in a coverup.”“Trials have witnesses!” Schumer declared, adding that “to engage a trial without the facts coming out is to engage in a coverup.”
The top Senate Democrat argued that it “just doesn’t make any sense” for the Senate to simply rehash the information that was already presented during the House impeachment hearings.The top Senate Democrat argued that it “just doesn’t make any sense” for the Senate to simply rehash the information that was already presented during the House impeachment hearings.
“If Leader McConnell doesn’t hold a full and fair trial,” Schumer said, “the American people will rightly ask, ‘What are you, Leader McConnell, and what is President Trump, hiding?’”“If Leader McConnell doesn’t hold a full and fair trial,” Schumer said, “the American people will rightly ask, ‘What are you, Leader McConnell, and what is President Trump, hiding?’”
Rep. Joe Cunningham, a freshman Democrat from a competitive district in South Carolina, announced Monday that he plans to vote in favor of both articles of impeachment against Trump.Rep. Joe Cunningham, a freshman Democrat from a competitive district in South Carolina, announced Monday that he plans to vote in favor of both articles of impeachment against Trump.
Cunningham told the Post and Courier of Charleston, S.C., that he found Trump’s conduct “unacceptable.”Cunningham told the Post and Courier of Charleston, S.C., that he found Trump’s conduct “unacceptable.”
Cunningham said he waited to make a decision about how to vote because he wanted to give Republicans a chance to present evidence in defense of Trump’s move to withhold military aid to Ukraine while asking Zelensky to conduct investigations that could benefit him politically.Cunningham said he waited to make a decision about how to vote because he wanted to give Republicans a chance to present evidence in defense of Trump’s move to withhold military aid to Ukraine while asking Zelensky to conduct investigations that could benefit him politically.
“I’ve waited and waited and I have not found any evidence they submitted compelling at all,” Cunningham said. “At the end of day, this is simply about the rule of law, whether we’re a country with laws or not and what type of precedent we want to set for future presidents.”“I’ve waited and waited and I have not found any evidence they submitted compelling at all,” Cunningham said. “At the end of day, this is simply about the rule of law, whether we’re a country with laws or not and what type of precedent we want to set for future presidents.”
Rep. Ben McAdams, a freshman Democrat who narrowly prevailed last year in a Utah district carried by Trump in 2016, announced Monday that he will support impeachment.Rep. Ben McAdams, a freshman Democrat who narrowly prevailed last year in a Utah district carried by Trump in 2016, announced Monday that he will support impeachment.
McAdams said he would have preferred to find bipartisan support for censuring Trump but said that is not an option.McAdams said he would have preferred to find bipartisan support for censuring Trump but said that is not an option.
“What the president did was wrong,” McAdams told reporters in Utah. “I cannot turn a blind eye, thereby condoning this president and future presidents — Republican or Democrat — to do the same. The evidence, to me, is clear. . . . I will vote yes.”“What the president did was wrong,” McAdams told reporters in Utah. “I cannot turn a blind eye, thereby condoning this president and future presidents — Republican or Democrat — to do the same. The evidence, to me, is clear. . . . I will vote yes.”
McAdams says he does not expect Trump to removed by the Senate and that it will be up to voters to determine his fate next year.McAdams says he does not expect Trump to removed by the Senate and that it will be up to voters to determine his fate next year.
A coalition of liberal advocacy groups is planning to stage more than 400 rallies across the country on Tuesday night calling for Trump’s impeachment.A coalition of liberal advocacy groups is planning to stage more than 400 rallies across the country on Tuesday night calling for Trump’s impeachment.
“How wavering representatives and senators vote will be powerfully influenced by their conscience and, at least as much, by their political read on the situation,” said an email promoting the events sent out by Public Citizens, one of the groups involved. “In short, they need to feel the heat from the public. That’s why calls, emails and protests — visible manifestations of support for impeachment — matter so much.”“How wavering representatives and senators vote will be powerfully influenced by their conscience and, at least as much, by their political read on the situation,” said an email promoting the events sent out by Public Citizens, one of the groups involved. “In short, they need to feel the heat from the public. That’s why calls, emails and protests — visible manifestations of support for impeachment — matter so much.”
Rep. Joe Cunningham, a freshman Democrat from a competitive district in South Carolina and a possible defector on impeachment, said he would announce how he plans to vote later Monday.Rep. Joe Cunningham, a freshman Democrat from a competitive district in South Carolina and a possible defector on impeachment, said he would announce how he plans to vote later Monday.
Asked by a reporter for WCIV-TV, a Charleston station, what he’s weighing, Cunningham said, “Obviously just the allegations, which are very serious, and what kind of, you know, marker we want to lay down for what’s acceptable later on, and also what’s best of the country.”Asked by a reporter for WCIV-TV, a Charleston station, what he’s weighing, Cunningham said, “Obviously just the allegations, which are very serious, and what kind of, you know, marker we want to lay down for what’s acceptable later on, and also what’s best of the country.”
Webster voiced disappointment Monday in Trump, Attorney General William P. Barr, and Giuliani.Webster voiced disappointment Monday in Trump, Attorney General William P. Barr, and Giuliani.
“I know firsthand the professionalism of the men and women of the FBI,” Webster, a former director of both the FBI and the CIA, wrote in an op-ed in the New York Times. “The aspersions cast upon them by the president and my longtime friend, Attorney General William P. Barr, are troubling in the extreme. Calling F.B.I. professionals ‘scum,’ as the president did, is a slur against people who risk their lives to keep us safe. Mr. Barr’s charges of bias within the F.B.I., made without providing any evidence and in direct dispute of the findings of the nonpartisan inspector general, risk inflicting enduring damage on this critically important institution.”“I know firsthand the professionalism of the men and women of the FBI,” Webster, a former director of both the FBI and the CIA, wrote in an op-ed in the New York Times. “The aspersions cast upon them by the president and my longtime friend, Attorney General William P. Barr, are troubling in the extreme. Calling F.B.I. professionals ‘scum,’ as the president did, is a slur against people who risk their lives to keep us safe. Mr. Barr’s charges of bias within the F.B.I., made without providing any evidence and in direct dispute of the findings of the nonpartisan inspector general, risk inflicting enduring damage on this critically important institution.”
Webster said his disappointment in Giuliani, whom he called a “lifetime, respected friend,” was profound.Webster said his disappointment in Giuliani, whom he called a “lifetime, respected friend,” was profound.
“His activities of late concerning Ukraine have, at a minimum, failed the smell test of propriety,” Webster said. “I hope he, like all of us, will redirect to our North Star, the rule of law, something so precious it is greater than any man or administration.”“His activities of late concerning Ukraine have, at a minimum, failed the smell test of propriety,” Webster said. “I hope he, like all of us, will redirect to our North Star, the rule of law, something so precious it is greater than any man or administration.”
Brigid Callahan Harrison, a political science professor at Montclair State University, announced Monday that she would seek the congressional seat of Rep. Jeff Van Drew, the freshman Democrat from New Jersey who opposes impeachment and is expected to switch parties later this week.Brigid Callahan Harrison, a political science professor at Montclair State University, announced Monday that she would seek the congressional seat of Rep. Jeff Van Drew, the freshman Democrat from New Jersey who opposes impeachment and is expected to switch parties later this week.
“Jeff Van Drew has betrayed our trust,” Harrison said in a tweet. “His actions show that he is not working for South Jersey. I’m running against him to represent #NJ02 because I am ready to work for South Jersey.”“Jeff Van Drew has betrayed our trust,” Harrison said in a tweet. “His actions show that he is not working for South Jersey. I’m running against him to represent #NJ02 because I am ready to work for South Jersey.”
Mental health advocate Amy Kennedy, the wife of former congressman Patrick Kennedy (D-R.I.), has also formed an exploratory committee, according to the Press of Atlantic City.Mental health advocate Amy Kennedy, the wife of former congressman Patrick Kennedy (D-R.I.), has also formed an exploratory committee, according to the Press of Atlantic City.
Kennedy told the newspaper that she decided to explore a bid over the weekend after hearing news of Van Drew’s departure from the Democratic Party.Kennedy told the newspaper that she decided to explore a bid over the weekend after hearing news of Van Drew’s departure from the Democratic Party.
Former Republican presidential candidate Carly Fiorina said in a newly released interview that it is “vital” that Trump be impeached, but she also refused to rule out voting for him in 2020.Former Republican presidential candidate Carly Fiorina said in a newly released interview that it is “vital” that Trump be impeached, but she also refused to rule out voting for him in 2020.
Speaking on an episode of CNN’s “Boss Files,” the former Hewlett-Packard executive told host Poppy Harlow that she is not certain whether Trump should be removed from office “this close to an election.”Speaking on an episode of CNN’s “Boss Files,” the former Hewlett-Packard executive told host Poppy Harlow that she is not certain whether Trump should be removed from office “this close to an election.”
“But I think the conduct is impeachable,” Fiorina continued. “And what I regret is that the principles that are being debated in this impeachment trial — separation of powers, abuse of power, obstruction of Congress — those principles are not as immediate or intense as partisanship or peoples’ belief that the politics that I care about impact me personally.”“But I think the conduct is impeachable,” Fiorina continued. “And what I regret is that the principles that are being debated in this impeachment trial — separation of powers, abuse of power, obstruction of Congress — those principles are not as immediate or intense as partisanship or peoples’ belief that the politics that I care about impact me personally.”
As candidates in 2016, Fiorina and Trump famously sparred after he made disparaging comments about her appearance (“Look at that face! Would anyone vote for that?” Trump said). Asked to respond to his remarks during a debate, Fiorina earned applause when she said that she thought “women all over this country heard what Mr. Trump said.”As candidates in 2016, Fiorina and Trump famously sparred after he made disparaging comments about her appearance (“Look at that face! Would anyone vote for that?” Trump said). Asked to respond to his remarks during a debate, Fiorina earned applause when she said that she thought “women all over this country heard what Mr. Trump said.”
But she told Harlow she ultimately voted for her former rival that November, believing that Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton “also was very corrupt” and acted as if she was entitled to the job. She said she decided to “give this guy a chance” but had been “bitterly disappointed.”But she told Harlow she ultimately voted for her former rival that November, believing that Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton “also was very corrupt” and acted as if she was entitled to the job. She said she decided to “give this guy a chance” but had been “bitterly disappointed.”
Fiorina was critical of the Republican Party of 2019, saying it seems to be “all about pledging fealty to Donald Trump no matter what.” She said her message to Republicans is that holding onto a job is “not the most important thing.”Fiorina was critical of the Republican Party of 2019, saying it seems to be “all about pledging fealty to Donald Trump no matter what.” She said her message to Republicans is that holding onto a job is “not the most important thing.”
“In this country, we don’t pledge allegiance to a party or to a president,” she said. “In this country, principles matter. And in particular, the principle that we have coequal branches of government and that no one is above the law and that it is Congress’s duty to oversee and to investigate the executive branch is a vital principle.”“In this country, we don’t pledge allegiance to a party or to a president,” she said. “In this country, principles matter. And in particular, the principle that we have coequal branches of government and that no one is above the law and that it is Congress’s duty to oversee and to investigate the executive branch is a vital principle.”
However, Fiorina did not rule out voting for Trump in 2020, saying only that it “depends on who the Democrats put up.”However, Fiorina did not rule out voting for Trump in 2020, saying only that it “depends on who the Democrats put up.”
Schumer’s call for additional witnesses to testify during Trump’s trial in the Senate drew pushback Monday from some conservatives, who noted that the senator had opposed the introduction of new evidence in President Bill Clinton’s Senate trial.Schumer’s call for additional witnesses to testify during Trump’s trial in the Senate drew pushback Monday from some conservatives, who noted that the senator had opposed the introduction of new evidence in President Bill Clinton’s Senate trial.
A spokesman for McConnell, David Popp, shared a Washington Examiner story highlighting the discrepancy on Twitter, posting only the headline with the link: “Schumer wants witnesses for a Trump trial, but rejected them for Clinton in 1999.” The story pointed to a quote from an interview Schumer gave to CBS in January 1999, in which he suggested that calling additional witnesses amounted to “political theater.”A spokesman for McConnell, David Popp, shared a Washington Examiner story highlighting the discrepancy on Twitter, posting only the headline with the link: “Schumer wants witnesses for a Trump trial, but rejected them for Clinton in 1999.” The story pointed to a quote from an interview Schumer gave to CBS in January 1999, in which he suggested that calling additional witnesses amounted to “political theater.”
CNN host John Berman pressed Schumer about his changed stance during an interview Monday morning. When the senator answered by saying there was no “bipartisan negotiation” for witnesses in the Clinton trial, Berman asked repeatedly what had changed.CNN host John Berman pressed Schumer about his changed stance during an interview Monday morning. When the senator answered by saying there was no “bipartisan negotiation” for witnesses in the Clinton trial, Berman asked repeatedly what had changed.
“What I’m asking is there be a fair negotiation focused on the facts between McConnell, and … I would expect Democrats and Republicans to support,” he said. “I expect some of my Republican colleagues … will say that’s fair.”“What I’m asking is there be a fair negotiation focused on the facts between McConnell, and … I would expect Democrats and Republicans to support,” he said. “I expect some of my Republican colleagues … will say that’s fair.”
Pressed again by Berman, Schumer added: “There’s a difference in the whole basis of the situation, but we should have the facts come out.”Pressed again by Berman, Schumer added: “There’s a difference in the whole basis of the situation, but we should have the facts come out.”
Rep. Cheri Bustos (Ill.), chairwoman of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, has offered to hire the resigning staff of Rep. Jeff Van Drew, a freshman Democrat from New Jersey who opposes impeachment and is expected to switch parties later this week.Rep. Cheri Bustos (Ill.), chairwoman of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, has offered to hire the resigning staff of Rep. Jeff Van Drew, a freshman Democrat from New Jersey who opposes impeachment and is expected to switch parties later this week.
“It’s right before the holidays and these staffers just quit their jobs to stand up for their Democratic values,” Bustos said in a tweet. “We’ll bring them and others who leave on with the @dccc until they land new jobs that align with their values.”“It’s right before the holidays and these staffers just quit their jobs to stand up for their Democratic values,” Bustos said in a tweet. “We’ll bring them and others who leave on with the @dccc until they land new jobs that align with their values.”
In a joint letter on Sunday, five of Drew’s staffers wrote that his “decision to join the ranks of the Republican Party led by Donald Trump does not align with the values we brought to this job when we joined his office.”In a joint letter on Sunday, five of Drew’s staffers wrote that his “decision to join the ranks of the Republican Party led by Donald Trump does not align with the values we brought to this job when we joined his office.”
President Trump raised the possibility Monday that he will not participate in debates against the Democratic nominee hosted by the Commission on Presidential Debates, alleging the nonprofit group that traditionally sponsors the events is biased against him.President Trump raised the possibility Monday that he will not participate in debates against the Democratic nominee hosted by the Commission on Presidential Debates, alleging the nonprofit group that traditionally sponsors the events is biased against him.
In tweets, Trump claimed he is looking forward to debating “whoever the lucky person is who stumbles across the finish line in the little watched Do Nothing Democrat Debates.” But he said the commission is “stacked with Trump Haters & Never Trumpers.”In tweets, Trump claimed he is looking forward to debating “whoever the lucky person is who stumbles across the finish line in the little watched Do Nothing Democrat Debates.” But he said the commission is “stacked with Trump Haters & Never Trumpers.”
“As President, the debates are up to me, and there are many options, including doing them directly & avoiding the nasty politics of this very biased Commission,” Trump said. “I will make a decision at an appropriate time but in the meantime, the Commission on Presidential Debates is NOT authorized to speak for me (or R’s)!”“As President, the debates are up to me, and there are many options, including doing them directly & avoiding the nasty politics of this very biased Commission,” Trump said. “I will make a decision at an appropriate time but in the meantime, the Commission on Presidential Debates is NOT authorized to speak for me (or R’s)!”
Trump’s tweets come as the House prepares to vote to impeach him this week, setting up a trial in the Republican-led Senate, which is not expected to remove him from office.Trump’s tweets come as the House prepares to vote to impeach him this week, setting up a trial in the Republican-led Senate, which is not expected to remove him from office.
Read more here.Read more here.
Rep. Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.), a freshman Democrat who represents a district Trump carried in 2016, announced Monday that she would support both articles of impeachment against him — but said she did not make her decision lightly.Rep. Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.), a freshman Democrat who represents a district Trump carried in 2016, announced Monday that she would support both articles of impeachment against him — but said she did not make her decision lightly.
“To be clear, presidents from both parties have leveraged the powerful role of the United States to get foreign countries to do what’s in our interest,” Slotkin said in a piece for the Detroit Free Press. “But here’s the fundamental difference: President Trump used the power of the presidency for his own benefit, to give himself some advantage in the very election that would determine whether he remained in office.”“To be clear, presidents from both parties have leveraged the powerful role of the United States to get foreign countries to do what’s in our interest,” Slotkin said in a piece for the Detroit Free Press. “But here’s the fundamental difference: President Trump used the power of the presidency for his own benefit, to give himself some advantage in the very election that would determine whether he remained in office.”
Slotkin, a former CIA officer, was part a group of moderate Democrats in swing districts seen as possible defectors from their party on the impeachment votes.Slotkin, a former CIA officer, was part a group of moderate Democrats in swing districts seen as possible defectors from their party on the impeachment votes.
“The Fake News Media, and their partner, the Democrat Party, are working overtime to make life for the United Republican Party, and all it stands for, as difficult as possible!” he tweeted.“The Fake News Media, and their partner, the Democrat Party, are working overtime to make life for the United Republican Party, and all it stands for, as difficult as possible!” he tweeted.
Earlier, Trump shared several posts by conservative allies, including one that showed House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler (D-N.Y.) being heckled as he boarded a members-only elevator in a House office building.Earlier, Trump shared several posts by conservative allies, including one that showed House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler (D-N.Y.) being heckled as he boarded a members-only elevator in a House office building.
In the footage, which appears to have been shot after the committee voted to impeach Trump on Friday, a man can be heard saying, “You’ve broken your oath, but you know what? Keep doing it, keep doing it, because the American people see through it. It’s going to work in President Trump’s favor.”In the footage, which appears to have been shot after the committee voted to impeach Trump on Friday, a man can be heard saying, “You’ve broken your oath, but you know what? Keep doing it, keep doing it, because the American people see through it. It’s going to work in President Trump’s favor.”
“Shame on you, sir. You’ll be exposed for your treason,” the man later says.“Shame on you, sir. You’ll be exposed for your treason,” the man later says.
Other tweets shared by Trump included one with the letters “BULL-” followed by an image of the head of House Intelligence Committee Chairman Adam B. Schiff (D-Calif.).Other tweets shared by Trump included one with the letters “BULL-” followed by an image of the head of House Intelligence Committee Chairman Adam B. Schiff (D-Calif.).
White House press secretary Stephanie Grisham claimed Monday that it was “laughable” for Schumer to assert that he wants Trump to have a fair trial.White House press secretary Stephanie Grisham claimed Monday that it was “laughable” for Schumer to assert that he wants Trump to have a fair trial.
In a tweet, Grisham quoted Schumer, who made multiple television appearances Monday morning, saying, “Let us hope that fairness will prevail.”In a tweet, Grisham quoted Schumer, who made multiple television appearances Monday morning, saying, “Let us hope that fairness will prevail.”
“ ‘Let us hope that fairness will prevail’ a laughable quote from @SenSchumer this AM … after the dems release an ‘impeachment report’ in the middle of the night,” Grisham tweeted. “Thankfully the people of this country continue to see the partisan sham that this is.”“ ‘Let us hope that fairness will prevail’ a laughable quote from @SenSchumer this AM … after the dems release an ‘impeachment report’ in the middle of the night,” Grisham tweeted. “Thankfully the people of this country continue to see the partisan sham that this is.”
She was referring to the 658-page House Judiciary Committee report, which was posted on the House Rules Committee website after midnight. The Judiciary Committee announced the filing of the report in a news release around 7 a.m. on Monday.She was referring to the 658-page House Judiciary Committee report, which was posted on the House Rules Committee website after midnight. The Judiciary Committee announced the filing of the report in a news release around 7 a.m. on Monday.
The Rules Committee is scheduled to meet Tuesday to determine the parameters of the House floor debate on the impeachment resolution on Wednesday.The Rules Committee is scheduled to meet Tuesday to determine the parameters of the House floor debate on the impeachment resolution on Wednesday.
Schumer pressed his case Monday to subpoena several senior Trump administration officials who did not testify in the House’s impeachment probe as witnesses for Trump’s expected trial next month in the Senate.Schumer pressed his case Monday to subpoena several senior Trump administration officials who did not testify in the House’s impeachment probe as witnesses for Trump’s expected trial next month in the Senate.
“To not have them is to engage in a coverup,” the Senate minority leader said during an appearance on MSNBC’S “Morning Joe.” “These witnesses are vital to determining exactly what has happened.”“To not have them is to engage in a coverup,” the Senate minority leader said during an appearance on MSNBC’S “Morning Joe.” “These witnesses are vital to determining exactly what has happened.”
In a letter Sunday to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), Schumer outlined a number of procedural demands that Democrats say would make the Senate trial fair and able to be completed “within a reasonable period of time.”In a letter Sunday to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), Schumer outlined a number of procedural demands that Democrats say would make the Senate trial fair and able to be completed “within a reasonable period of time.”
That includes subpoenas issued by Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. for acting White House chief of staff Mick Mulvaney; Robert Blair, a senior adviser to Mulvaney; former national security adviser John Bolton; and Michael Duffey, a top official at the Office of Management and Budget. Mulvaney, Blair and Duffey had been subpoenaed by the House committees and defied the summons; Bolton has not been subpoenaed but indicated he would fight one in court.That includes subpoenas issued by Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. for acting White House chief of staff Mick Mulvaney; Robert Blair, a senior adviser to Mulvaney; former national security adviser John Bolton; and Michael Duffey, a top official at the Office of Management and Budget. Mulvaney, Blair and Duffey had been subpoenaed by the House committees and defied the summons; Bolton has not been subpoenaed but indicated he would fight one in court.
Schumer said he reached out to McConnell about two weeks ago about the parameters for a Senate trial but did not hear back from him.Schumer said he reached out to McConnell about two weeks ago about the parameters for a Senate trial but did not hear back from him.
“I hope now he will talk to me,” Schumer said.“I hope now he will talk to me,” Schumer said.
McConnell has raised the possibility of ending the trial after opening arguments without hearing from any witnesses. Trump, meanwhile, has said that he would like a longer trial with witnesses including the anonymous whistleblower whose complaint sparked the impeachment inquiry, as well as Joe and Hunter Biden.McConnell has raised the possibility of ending the trial after opening arguments without hearing from any witnesses. Trump, meanwhile, has said that he would like a longer trial with witnesses including the anonymous whistleblower whose complaint sparked the impeachment inquiry, as well as Joe and Hunter Biden.
Schumer said Monday that the trial should only include witnesses with knowledge of what is alleged in the House articles of impeachment.Schumer said Monday that the trial should only include witnesses with knowledge of what is alleged in the House articles of impeachment.
Schumer was also critical of Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Lindsey O. Graham (R-S.C.), who said over the weekend that he has already made up his mind and has “disdain for the accusations” against Trump.Schumer was also critical of Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Lindsey O. Graham (R-S.C.), who said over the weekend that he has already made up his mind and has “disdain for the accusations” against Trump.
“I think his comments demean him,” Schumer said.“I think his comments demean him,” Schumer said.
Democrats accuse Trump of criminal bribery and wire fraud in a 658-page report released early Monday that explains the two articles of impeachment — abuse of power and obstruction of Congress — that the full House is scheduled to consider on Wednesday.Democrats accuse Trump of criminal bribery and wire fraud in a 658-page report released early Monday that explains the two articles of impeachment — abuse of power and obstruction of Congress — that the full House is scheduled to consider on Wednesday.
The report argues that Trump’s solicitation of investigations from Zelensky at a time when military aid was being withheld meets the definition of both constitutional and criminal bribery — terms that are not made explicit in the articles of impeachment drafted by the House Judiciary Committee.The report argues that Trump’s solicitation of investigations from Zelensky at a time when military aid was being withheld meets the definition of both constitutional and criminal bribery — terms that are not made explicit in the articles of impeachment drafted by the House Judiciary Committee.
Trump’s July call with Zelensky also meets the standard of federal wire fraud, the report argues.Trump’s July call with Zelensky also meets the standard of federal wire fraud, the report argues.
Read the House Judiciary Committee report on impeachmentRead the House Judiciary Committee report on impeachment
“The first Article of Impeachment charged President Trump with an abuse of power as that constitutional offense has long been understood,” the report says. “While there is no need for a crime to be proven in order for impeachment to be warranted, here, President Trump’s scheme or course of conduct also encompassed other offenses, both constitutional and criminal in character, and it is appropriate for the Committee to recognize such offenses in assessing the question of impeachment.”“The first Article of Impeachment charged President Trump with an abuse of power as that constitutional offense has long been understood,” the report says. “While there is no need for a crime to be proven in order for impeachment to be warranted, here, President Trump’s scheme or course of conduct also encompassed other offenses, both constitutional and criminal in character, and it is appropriate for the Committee to recognize such offenses in assessing the question of impeachment.”
“Applying the constitutional definition of ‘Bribery’ here, there can be little doubt that it is satisfied,” it continues. “President Trump solicited President Zelensky for a ‘favor’ of great personal value to him; he did so corruptly; and he did so in a scheme to influence his own official actions respecting the release of military and security assistance and the offer of a White House meeting. Although President Trump’s actions need not rise to the level of a criminal violation to justify impeachment, his conduct here was criminal.”“Applying the constitutional definition of ‘Bribery’ here, there can be little doubt that it is satisfied,” it continues. “President Trump solicited President Zelensky for a ‘favor’ of great personal value to him; he did so corruptly; and he did so in a scheme to influence his own official actions respecting the release of military and security assistance and the offer of a White House meeting. Although President Trump’s actions need not rise to the level of a criminal violation to justify impeachment, his conduct here was criminal.”
The report also details the article of impeachment for obstruction of Congress, accusing Trump of having directed executive branch agencies and officials not to comply with subpoenas issued during the impeachment inquiry “without lawful cause or excuse.”The report also details the article of impeachment for obstruction of Congress, accusing Trump of having directed executive branch agencies and officials not to comply with subpoenas issued during the impeachment inquiry “without lawful cause or excuse.”
“Taken together, the articles charge that President Trump has placed his personal, political interests above our national security, our free and fair elections, and our system of checks and balances,” the report says. “He has engaged in a pattern of misconduct that will continue if left unchecked. Accordingly, President Trump should be impeached and removed from office.”“Taken together, the articles charge that President Trump has placed his personal, political interests above our national security, our free and fair elections, and our system of checks and balances,” the report says. “He has engaged in a pattern of misconduct that will continue if left unchecked. Accordingly, President Trump should be impeached and removed from office.”
The report also includes a dissent written by Rep. Douglas A. Collins (Ga.), the top Republican on the Judiciary Committee.The report also includes a dissent written by Rep. Douglas A. Collins (Ga.), the top Republican on the Judiciary Committee.
“To these Articles, the minority dissents,” Collins says. “The majority’s actions are unprecedented, unjustifiable and will only dilute the significance of the dire recourse that is impeachment. The ramifications for future presidents are not difficult to surmise.”“To these Articles, the minority dissents,” Collins says. “The majority’s actions are unprecedented, unjustifiable and will only dilute the significance of the dire recourse that is impeachment. The ramifications for future presidents are not difficult to surmise.”
Trump is planning to stage a campaign rally in Michigan on Wednesday — the same day the House is expected to vote to impeach him.Trump is planning to stage a campaign rally in Michigan on Wednesday — the same day the House is expected to vote to impeach him.
He plans to travel to Battle Creek in his second trip to the state this year. Trump narrowly carried Michigan over Democrat Hillary Clinton in the 2016 presidential election, and the state will be key to the Republican’s prospects in 2020.He plans to travel to Battle Creek in his second trip to the state this year. Trump narrowly carried Michigan over Democrat Hillary Clinton in the 2016 presidential election, and the state will be key to the Republican’s prospects in 2020.
Trump has little on his public schedule Monday. He is scheduled to participate in a roundtable discussion on regulatory reform late in the morning and attend a pair of private Christmas receptions later in the day.Trump has little on his public schedule Monday. He is scheduled to participate in a roundtable discussion on regulatory reform late in the morning and attend a pair of private Christmas receptions later in the day.
The country remains sharply divided over whether Trump should be impeached — and few people seem to be changing their views, according to a new NPR-PBS NewsHour-Marist poll.The country remains sharply divided over whether Trump should be impeached — and few people seem to be changing their views, according to a new NPR-PBS NewsHour-Marist poll.
Forty-seven percent of Americans support the impeachment of Trump while 48 percent are opposed, according to the poll. Those finds are statistically unchanged since last month despite the public hearings and debate that has ensued.Forty-seven percent of Americans support the impeachment of Trump while 48 percent are opposed, according to the poll. Those finds are statistically unchanged since last month despite the public hearings and debate that has ensued.
“It’s like the hearings have never happened,” said Lee Miringoff, director of the Marist Institute for Public Opinion, which conducted the poll. “The arguments have only served to reinforce existing views and everyone is rooting for their side.”“It’s like the hearings have never happened,” said Lee Miringoff, director of the Marist Institute for Public Opinion, which conducted the poll. “The arguments have only served to reinforce existing views and everyone is rooting for their side.”
At least six senior aides working for Rep. Jeff Van Drew, a freshman Democrat from New Jersey who opposes impeachment and is expected to switch parties later this week, resigned Sunday in a mass exodus following the legislator’s decision to jump to the GOP.At least six senior aides working for Rep. Jeff Van Drew, a freshman Democrat from New Jersey who opposes impeachment and is expected to switch parties later this week, resigned Sunday in a mass exodus following the legislator’s decision to jump to the GOP.
“Sadly, Congressman Van Drew’s decision to join the ranks of the Republican Party led by Donald Trump does not align with the values we brought to this job when we joined his office,” five Washington-based staffers wrote in a letter obtained by The Washington Post.“Sadly, Congressman Van Drew’s decision to join the ranks of the Republican Party led by Donald Trump does not align with the values we brought to this job when we joined his office,” five Washington-based staffers wrote in a letter obtained by The Washington Post.
The officials who signed the resignation letter — legislative director and deputy chief Javier Gamboa, deputy chief Edward Kaczmarski, deputy chief Justin O’Leary, communications director Mackenzie Lucas and legislative staff assistant Caroline Wood — said they were “deeply saddened and disappointed” by their boss’s decision. A sixth staffer based in New Jersey, Van Drew’s director of constituency relations CeCe Doherty, also reportedly resigned Sunday evening.The officials who signed the resignation letter — legislative director and deputy chief Javier Gamboa, deputy chief Edward Kaczmarski, deputy chief Justin O’Leary, communications director Mackenzie Lucas and legislative staff assistant Caroline Wood — said they were “deeply saddened and disappointed” by their boss’s decision. A sixth staffer based in New Jersey, Van Drew’s director of constituency relations CeCe Doherty, also reportedly resigned Sunday evening.
Read more here.Read more here.