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Impeachment live updates: Trump excoriates Pelosi and Democrats in letter to House speaker, calls impeachment ‘declaring open war on American Democracy’ Impeachment live updates: Trump excoriates Pelosi and Democrats in letter to House speaker, calls impeachment ‘declaring open war on American Democracy’
(32 minutes later)
President Trump on Tuesday sent an extraordinary letter to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) expressing his “strongest and most powerful protest” against impeachment, which he described as a partisan “crusade” by Democrats.President Trump on Tuesday sent an extraordinary letter to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) expressing his “strongest and most powerful protest” against impeachment, which he described as a partisan “crusade” by Democrats.
“This impeachment represents an unprecedented and unconstitutional abuse of power by Democrat Lawmakers, unequaled in nearly two and a half centuries of American legislative history,” the president wrote in the six-page missive. Trump also told reporters in the Oval Office that he takes “zero” responsibility for the fact that he is about to be impeached.
The letter came as the House was moving closer to impeaching Trump, as the Rules Committee met to set the parameters for the historic debate expected Wednesday over whether the president’s conduct toward Ukraine violated his oath of office. Trump’s letter and comments came as the House Rules Committee was meeting to set the parameters for the historic debate expected Wednesday over whether the president’s conduct toward Ukraine violated his oath of office.
Earlier Tuesday, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) rejected calls from Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer (D-N.Y.) on Tuesday to subpoena new witnesses in a Senate trial, calling it “a strange request at this juncture.” Earlier Tuesday, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) rejected calls from Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer (D-N.Y.) to subpoena new witnesses in a Senate trial, calling it “a strange request at this juncture.”
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.
●Senate leaders battle over impeachment trial after McConnell rejects Democrats’ calls for witnesses.●Senate leaders battle over impeachment trial after McConnell rejects Democrats’ calls for witnesses.
●Americans locked in partisan stalemate on removing Trump from office, Post-ABC poll finds.●Americans locked in partisan stalemate on removing Trump from office, Post-ABC poll finds.
●Russian disinformation network said to have helped spread smear of U.S. ambassador to Ukraine.●Russian disinformation network said to have helped spread smear of U.S. ambassador to Ukraine.
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
Trump sent a six-page letter to Pelosi Tuesday afternoon expressing his “strongest and most powerful protest” against impeachment, which he described as a partisan “crusade” by Democrats. McConnell said Tuesday that he does not consider himself “an impartial juror” in the expected Senate impeachment trial of President Trump.
“This impeachment represents an unprecedented and unconstitutional abuse of power by Democrat Lawmakers, unequaled in nearly two and a half centuries of American legislative history,” he wrote. “I’m not an impartial juror. This is a political process,” McConnell told reporters at the Capitol. “I’m not impartial about this at all.”
McConnell’s comments come as he faces criticism from Democrats for acknowledging that he is closely coordinating with the White House in advance of a Senate trial that is expected to start early next month. Democrats have said his actions amount to a jury foreman coordinating with the defense team.
McConnell predicted that the House vote on impeachment would break almost entirely along partisan lines and said he expects “an almost entirely partisan outcome” in the Senate as well.
In an exchange with reporters in the Oval Office before a meeting with Guatemalan President Jimmy Morales, Trump was asked directly whether he takes responsibility for the fact that he is about to be impeached.
“No, I don’t take any,” he responded. “Zero, to put it mildly.”
He once again argued that Democrats were impeaching him over “a perfect phone call that I had with the president of Ukraine.”
“To impeach the president of the United States for that is a disgrace, and it’s a mark on our country,” he said.
Trump sent a scathing six-page letter to Pelosi Tuesday afternoon expressing his “strongest and most powerful protest” against impeachment, which he described as a partisan “crusade” by Democrats.
“This impeachment represents an unprecedented and unconstitutional abuse of power by Democrat Lawmakers, unequaled in nearly two and a half centuries of American legislative history. ... By proceeding with your invalid impeachment, you are violating your oaths of office, you are breaking your allegiance to the Constitution, and you are declaring open war on American Democracy,” he wrote.
In the letter, Trump repeatedly accused Democrats of many of the same offenses of which he himself is accused.
“You are the ones interfering in America’s elections,” he wrote. “You are the ones subverting America’s Democracy. You are the ones Obstructing Justice. You are the ones bringing pain and suffering to our Republic for your own selfish personal, political, and partisan gain.”
Trump also renewed his complaints about the impeachment process, arguing that “more due process was afforded to those accused in the Salem Witch Trials.”
“You have cheapened the importance of the very ugly word, impeachment!” he wrote.
White House counselor Kellyanne Conway is scheduled to have lunch with Senate Republicans on Wednesday — the same day the House is expected to approve two articles of impeachment against Trump — abuse of power and obstruction of Congress.White House counselor Kellyanne Conway is scheduled to have lunch with Senate Republicans on Wednesday — the same day the House is expected to approve two articles of impeachment against Trump — abuse of power and obstruction of Congress.
During the lunch, Conway and the GOP senators will discuss impeachment trial strategy, according to an aide to Sen. Mike Lee (R-Utah), who organizes the Wednesday lunches.During the lunch, Conway and the GOP senators will discuss impeachment trial strategy, according to an aide to Sen. Mike Lee (R-Utah), who organizes the Wednesday lunches.
Vice President Pence has refused to declassify testimony that is “directly relevant” to the impeachment debate, House Intelligence Committee Chairman Adam B. Schiff (D-Calif.) wrote Tuesday in a letter that raised further questions about what Pence said on a Sept. 18 phone call with Zelensky.Vice President Pence has refused to declassify testimony that is “directly relevant” to the impeachment debate, House Intelligence Committee Chairman Adam B. Schiff (D-Calif.) wrote Tuesday in a letter that raised further questions about what Pence said on a Sept. 18 phone call with Zelensky.
In a letter to Pence that was shared by a committee official, Schiff wrote that classified witness testimony gathered during the impeachment inquiry directly implicates him and “raises profound questions about [his] knowledge of the President’s scheme to solicit Ukraine’s interference in the 2020 U.S. presidential election.”In a letter to Pence that was shared by a committee official, Schiff wrote that classified witness testimony gathered during the impeachment inquiry directly implicates him and “raises profound questions about [his] knowledge of the President’s scheme to solicit Ukraine’s interference in the 2020 U.S. presidential election.”
A spokeswoman for Pence did not immediately respond to a request for comment.A spokeswoman for Pence did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
The testimony from Jennifer Williams, Pence’s Russia adviser, was provided in a supplemental written submission to the Intelligence Committee through her lawyer Nov. 26. Ten days later, Schiff asked Pence to declassify it.The testimony from Jennifer Williams, Pence’s Russia adviser, was provided in a supplemental written submission to the Intelligence Committee through her lawyer Nov. 26. Ten days later, Schiff asked Pence to declassify it.
Schiff revealed Tuesday that Pence’s office refused the request last week in a letter that made unprompted claims about his Sept. 18 call with Zelensky.Schiff revealed Tuesday that Pence’s office refused the request last week in a letter that made unprompted claims about his Sept. 18 call with Zelensky.
Schiff called that letter from Pence’s office “deeply troubling.”Schiff called that letter from Pence’s office “deeply troubling.”
“Without prompting, the letter volunteers that ‘the Vice President never raised the Bidens, Burisma, or Crowdstrike in his conversations with President Zelensky,’ ” Schiff’s letter stated Tuesday. “The Committee neither asserted that, nor asked whether, you specifically used those words.”“Without prompting, the letter volunteers that ‘the Vice President never raised the Bidens, Burisma, or Crowdstrike in his conversations with President Zelensky,’ ” Schiff’s letter stated Tuesday. “The Committee neither asserted that, nor asked whether, you specifically used those words.”
Schiff raised the possibility that Pence’s office may have misled the committee with this claim, if Williams’s testimony is true.Schiff raised the possibility that Pence’s office may have misled the committee with this claim, if Williams’s testimony is true.
“If the Supplemental Submission [from Williams] accurately describes your September 18 conversation with President Zelensky … it would mean that the representation of your communications with President Zelensky, as described in your office’s December 11 letter, may be purposefully misleading.”“If the Supplemental Submission [from Williams] accurately describes your September 18 conversation with President Zelensky … it would mean that the representation of your communications with President Zelensky, as described in your office’s December 11 letter, may be purposefully misleading.”
Pence’s office has said his Sept. 18 call with Zelensky was classified and cannot be discussed in open settings.Pence’s office has said his Sept. 18 call with Zelensky was classified and cannot be discussed in open settings.
Schiff urged him to reconsider his decision not to declassify Williams’s written testimony.Schiff urged him to reconsider his decision not to declassify Williams’s written testimony.
“Your unwillingness to declassify the Supplemental Submission raises the serious question of whether your continuing efforts to obstruct the House’s impeachment inquiry are intended not just to protect President Trump, but yourself as well,” Schiff wrote.“Your unwillingness to declassify the Supplemental Submission raises the serious question of whether your continuing efforts to obstruct the House’s impeachment inquiry are intended not just to protect President Trump, but yourself as well,” Schiff wrote.
Rep. Abby Finkenauer, a freshman Democrat representing an Iowa congressional district that Trump carried in 2016, announced Tuesday that she would support both articles of impeachment against Trump.Rep. Abby Finkenauer, a freshman Democrat representing an Iowa congressional district that Trump carried in 2016, announced Tuesday that she would support both articles of impeachment against Trump.
“I will be supporting both articles of impeachment and honor my duty to defend our constitution and democracy from abuse of power at the highest level,” Finkenauer said in a statement. “This decision is not, and was never about politics, and this shouldn’t be about political parties or elections. It’s about facts, dignity in public service, and honoring those who fought and continue to fight to protect our sacred democracy.”“I will be supporting both articles of impeachment and honor my duty to defend our constitution and democracy from abuse of power at the highest level,” Finkenauer said in a statement. “This decision is not, and was never about politics, and this shouldn’t be about political parties or elections. It’s about facts, dignity in public service, and honoring those who fought and continue to fight to protect our sacred democracy.”
President Bill Clinton stood at a lectern in the Rose Garden, surrounded by supporters, including his wife, first lady Hillary Clinton. The votes had been counted, and the news had arrived: He was being impeached.President Bill Clinton stood at a lectern in the Rose Garden, surrounded by supporters, including his wife, first lady Hillary Clinton. The votes had been counted, and the news had arrived: He was being impeached.
“I hope there will be a constitutional and fair means of resolving this matter in a prompt manner,” he said. “Meanwhile, I will continue to do the work of the American people.”“I hope there will be a constitutional and fair means of resolving this matter in a prompt manner,” he said. “Meanwhile, I will continue to do the work of the American people.”
He decried the “excessive partisanship” and “obsessive animosity” of the day. Then he turned around, shook hands, walked back into the White House and threw a Christmas party.He decried the “excessive partisanship” and “obsessive animosity” of the day. Then he turned around, shook hands, walked back into the White House and threw a Christmas party.
In an amazing episode of “history repeats itself,” the House is expected to vote to impeach Trump on Dec. 18 — one day short of the 21st anniversary of the House voting to impeach Clinton on Dec. 19, 1998. Both arrived awkwardly in the holiday season known for “glad tidings” and “goodwill toward men.”In an amazing episode of “history repeats itself,” the House is expected to vote to impeach Trump on Dec. 18 — one day short of the 21st anniversary of the House voting to impeach Clinton on Dec. 19, 1998. Both arrived awkwardly in the holiday season known for “glad tidings” and “goodwill toward men.”
Read more here.Read more here.
Reps. Jamie Raskin (D-Md.) and Douglas A. Collins (R-Ga.) offered sharply divergent takes on Trump’s conduct as they began their presentations to the Rules Committee.Reps. Jamie Raskin (D-Md.) and Douglas A. Collins (R-Ga.) offered sharply divergent takes on Trump’s conduct as they began their presentations to the Rules Committee.
Raskin said the House inquiry produced “overwhelming evidence” to support the two articles of impeachment against Trump — abuse of power and obstruction of Congress.Raskin said the House inquiry produced “overwhelming evidence” to support the two articles of impeachment against Trump — abuse of power and obstruction of Congress.
Raskin characterized Trump’s conduct as “the Ukraine shakedown” and said the president had engaged in “outrageous defiance of Congress.”Raskin characterized Trump’s conduct as “the Ukraine shakedown” and said the president had engaged in “outrageous defiance of Congress.”
Raskin was standing in for House Judiciary Chairman Jerrold Nadler (D-N.Y.), who had a family emergency.Raskin was standing in for House Judiciary Chairman Jerrold Nadler (D-N.Y.), who had a family emergency.
Collins, the top Republican on the Judiciary panel, argued that Democrats had cherry-picked evidence to support their preexisting biases against Trump.Collins, the top Republican on the Judiciary panel, argued that Democrats had cherry-picked evidence to support their preexisting biases against Trump.
Delivering a colorful and fast-paced opening statement, Collins compared the atmosphere surrounding impeachment on Capitol Hill to “Alice in Wonderland” and said Democrats’ efforts were like “last-minute Christmas shopping.”Delivering a colorful and fast-paced opening statement, Collins compared the atmosphere surrounding impeachment on Capitol Hill to “Alice in Wonderland” and said Democrats’ efforts were like “last-minute Christmas shopping.”
“They ran and found something and said, ‘We can do it,’ ” he said of the charges contained in the articles of impeachment.“They ran and found something and said, ‘We can do it,’ ” he said of the charges contained in the articles of impeachment.
Former deputy Trump campaign chairman Rick Gates was sentenced to 45 days in jail Tuesday despite crimes that could have put him in prison for five or six years, after offering what prosecutors described as extraordinary cooperation with special counsel Robert S. Mueller III’s Russia probe.Former deputy Trump campaign chairman Rick Gates was sentenced to 45 days in jail Tuesday despite crimes that could have put him in prison for five or six years, after offering what prosecutors described as extraordinary cooperation with special counsel Robert S. Mueller III’s Russia probe.
Gates can serve the sentence on weekends, U.S. District Judge Amy Berman Jackson said. Gates, who will be on probation for three years, must also pay a $20,000 fine and perform 300 hours of community service.Gates can serve the sentence on weekends, U.S. District Judge Amy Berman Jackson said. Gates, who will be on probation for three years, must also pay a $20,000 fine and perform 300 hours of community service.
In sentencing Gates, Jackson said she struggled to balance his crimes with the vital “evidence about matters of grave and international importance” he offered federal prosecutors.In sentencing Gates, Jackson said she struggled to balance his crimes with the vital “evidence about matters of grave and international importance” he offered federal prosecutors.
“Gates’s information alone warranted, even demanded further investigation from the standpoint of national security, the integrity of our elections, and enforcing criminal laws,” Jackson said.“Gates’s information alone warranted, even demanded further investigation from the standpoint of national security, the integrity of our elections, and enforcing criminal laws,” Jackson said.
Read more here.Read more here.
Another centrist Democrat announced Tuesday that she will vote to impeach Trump, bringing the number of House lawmakers who have voiced support for both articles of impeachment to 206.Another centrist Democrat announced Tuesday that she will vote to impeach Trump, bringing the number of House lawmakers who have voiced support for both articles of impeachment to 206.
Rep. Kendra Horn (D-Okla.) said in a statement that “allowing one branch [of government] or president to ignore our laws and Constitution would set a dangerous precedent.”Rep. Kendra Horn (D-Okla.) said in a statement that “allowing one branch [of government] or president to ignore our laws and Constitution would set a dangerous precedent.”
“It is with a heavy heart, but with clarity of conviction that I have made my decision,” Horn stated. “The oath I took to protect and defend the Constitution requires a vote for impeachment. This is not a decision I came to lightly, but I must do my part to ensure our democracy remains strong.”“It is with a heavy heart, but with clarity of conviction that I have made my decision,” Horn stated. “The oath I took to protect and defend the Constitution requires a vote for impeachment. This is not a decision I came to lightly, but I must do my part to ensure our democracy remains strong.”
In her decision, Horn sided with several other Democrats who represent districts that voted for Trump in 2016. She was elected in 2018 to represent Oklahoma’s 5th Congressional District, which Trump carried by 13.4 points.In her decision, Horn sided with several other Democrats who represent districts that voted for Trump in 2016. She was elected in 2018 to represent Oklahoma’s 5th Congressional District, which Trump carried by 13.4 points.
Reps. Anthony Brindisi (D-N.Y.), Mikie Sherrill (D-N.J.) and Josh Gottheimer (D-N.J.) announced Monday night and Tuesday that they would also support the articles of impeachment.Reps. Anthony Brindisi (D-N.Y.), Mikie Sherrill (D-N.J.) and Josh Gottheimer (D-N.J.) announced Monday night and Tuesday that they would also support the articles of impeachment.
In opening remarks, Rep. Tom Cole (Okla.), the top Republican on the Rules Committee, decried what he said was a “partisan” impeachment process and said the case against Trump does not meet standards endorsed by Pelosi.In opening remarks, Rep. Tom Cole (Okla.), the top Republican on the Rules Committee, decried what he said was a “partisan” impeachment process and said the case against Trump does not meet standards endorsed by Pelosi.
Pelosi had pledged not to move forward with impeachment unless it was bipartisan and reflected the national consensus.Pelosi had pledged not to move forward with impeachment unless it was bipartisan and reflected the national consensus.
Pointing to a poll showing the country divided on removing Trump from office, Cole said, “When half of Americans are telling you what you’re doing is wrong, you should listen.”Pointing to a poll showing the country divided on removing Trump from office, Cole said, “When half of Americans are telling you what you’re doing is wrong, you should listen.”
House Rules Chairman Jim McGovern (D-Mass.) has gaveled his panel to order.House Rules Chairman Jim McGovern (D-Mass.) has gaveled his panel to order.
“It’s unfortunate that we have to be here today, but the actions of President Trump make that necessary,” McGovern said as the proceedings got underway.“It’s unfortunate that we have to be here today, but the actions of President Trump make that necessary,” McGovern said as the proceedings got underway.
The Rules Committee is tasked with setting the parameters of the debate on the House floor on Wednesday.The Rules Committee is tasked with setting the parameters of the debate on the House floor on Wednesday.
Rep. Jeff Van Drew (D-N.J.), expected to switch parties this week after a vote on Trump’s impeachment, did not attend the first House votes of the week Tuesday.Rep. Jeff Van Drew (D-N.J.), expected to switch parties this week after a vote on Trump’s impeachment, did not attend the first House votes of the week Tuesday.
Van Drew skipped votes on, among other things, a procedural measure bringing $1.3 trillion on federal spending to the House floor, one of the most consequential pieces of legislation of the year.Van Drew skipped votes on, among other things, a procedural measure bringing $1.3 trillion on federal spending to the House floor, one of the most consequential pieces of legislation of the year.
Fellow New Jersey lawmakers seethed over his party switch as the votes were being taken.Fellow New Jersey lawmakers seethed over his party switch as the votes were being taken.
Rep. Bill Pascrell Jr. (D-N.J.) said he no longer considered Van Drew welcome on the Democratic side of the aisle.Rep. Bill Pascrell Jr. (D-N.J.) said he no longer considered Van Drew welcome on the Democratic side of the aisle.
“Politics is not where the wind blows,” he said. “You’re in the wrong place if that’s what you’re about. You stand, you commit. You don’t do foolish things.”“Politics is not where the wind blows,” he said. “You’re in the wrong place if that’s what you’re about. You stand, you commit. You don’t do foolish things.”
Schumer on Tuesday defended his request for subpoenaing witnesses for a Senate trial and challenged Trump and Republicans to explain “why less evidence is better than more evidence.”Schumer on Tuesday defended his request for subpoenaing witnesses for a Senate trial and challenged Trump and Republicans to explain “why less evidence is better than more evidence.”
“What is Leader McConnell afraid of? What is President Trump afraid of? The truth?” Schumer said in remarks on the Senate floor.“What is Leader McConnell afraid of? What is President Trump afraid of? The truth?” Schumer said in remarks on the Senate floor.
He continued later: “President Trump: Are you worried about what these witnesses would say? If you’re not worried, let them come forward, and if you are worried, we ought to hear from them.”He continued later: “President Trump: Are you worried about what these witnesses would say? If you’re not worried, let them come forward, and if you are worried, we ought to hear from them.”
Schumer on Sunday sent a letter to McConnell requesting subpoenas for testimony from four current or former Trump administration officials with knowledge relevant to the impeachment inquiry. McConnell rejected the request in a floor speech about an hour before Schumer’s.Schumer on Sunday sent a letter to McConnell requesting subpoenas for testimony from four current or former Trump administration officials with knowledge relevant to the impeachment inquiry. McConnell rejected the request in a floor speech about an hour before Schumer’s.
The Democratic leader pointed to a Washington Post-ABC News poll released Tuesday that found that 64 percent of Republicans and 72 percent of independents believe Trump should let his advisers appear before the Senate.The Democratic leader pointed to a Washington Post-ABC News poll released Tuesday that found that 64 percent of Republicans and 72 percent of independents believe Trump should let his advisers appear before the Senate.
“We will have votes on whether these people should testify and whether these documents will be made public and part of the trial, and the American people will be watching,” Schumer said. “They will be watching who is for an open and fair trial, who is for hiding facts … [and] who is covering up.”“We will have votes on whether these people should testify and whether these documents will be made public and part of the trial, and the American people will be watching,” Schumer said. “They will be watching who is for an open and fair trial, who is for hiding facts … [and] who is covering up.”
McConnell on Tuesday rejected a call from his Democratic counterpart to subpoena new witnesses to testify during a Senate impeachment trial.McConnell on Tuesday rejected a call from his Democratic counterpart to subpoena new witnesses to testify during a Senate impeachment trial.
Speaking on the Senate floor, McConnell said the request by Schumer on Sunday was “dead wrong” and suggested that the House’s case against Trump is “deficient.”Speaking on the Senate floor, McConnell said the request by Schumer on Sunday was “dead wrong” and suggested that the House’s case against Trump is “deficient.”
“We certainly do not need jurors to start brainstorming witness lists for the prosecution,” McConnell said, referring to the role of senators during the trial.“We certainly do not need jurors to start brainstorming witness lists for the prosecution,” McConnell said, referring to the role of senators during the trial.
The remarks came in response to a letter from Schumer in which the Democrat outlined a number of procedural demands he said would make an impeachment trial more fair. The demands included subpoenas for acting White House chief of staff Mick Mulvaney; Mulvaney senior adviser Robert Blair; former national security adviser John Bolton; and top Office of Management and Budget official Michael Duffey.The remarks came in response to a letter from Schumer in which the Democrat outlined a number of procedural demands he said would make an impeachment trial more fair. The demands included subpoenas for acting White House chief of staff Mick Mulvaney; Mulvaney senior adviser Robert Blair; former national security adviser John Bolton; and top Office of Management and Budget official Michael Duffey.
Mulvaney, Blair and Duffey have defied subpoenas from House committees, while Bolton, who has not been subpoenaed, has said he would fight one in court.Mulvaney, Blair and Duffey have defied subpoenas from House committees, while Bolton, who has not been subpoenaed, has said he would fight one in court.
“The fact that my colleague is already desperate to sign up the Senate for new fact-finding … suggests something to me,” McConnell said of Schumer.“The fact that my colleague is already desperate to sign up the Senate for new fact-finding … suggests something to me,” McConnell said of Schumer.
“It suggests that even Democrats who do not like this president are beginning to realize how dramatically insufficient the House’s rushed process has been,” he said. “If House Democrats’ case is this deficient, this thin, the answer is not for the judge and jury to cure it over here in the Senate. The answer is that the House should not impeach on this basis in the first place.”“It suggests that even Democrats who do not like this president are beginning to realize how dramatically insufficient the House’s rushed process has been,” he said. “If House Democrats’ case is this deficient, this thin, the answer is not for the judge and jury to cure it over here in the Senate. The answer is that the House should not impeach on this basis in the first place.”
Sen. Mike Braun (R-Ind.) suggested Tuesday that he has made up his mind to support Trump’s acquittal during a Senate impeachment trial unless new information emerges about the case.Sen. Mike Braun (R-Ind.) suggested Tuesday that he has made up his mind to support Trump’s acquittal during a Senate impeachment trial unless new information emerges about the case.
“It’s not like we haven’t heard a lot about it … Why belabor it?” the freshman senator said on MSNBC, under repeated questioning from host Hallie Jackson. “ … If we don’t hear anything new, I think most people have their minds made up.”“It’s not like we haven’t heard a lot about it … Why belabor it?” the freshman senator said on MSNBC, under repeated questioning from host Hallie Jackson. “ … If we don’t hear anything new, I think most people have their minds made up.”
When Jackson said it sounded like Braun had made his decision, he did not dispute it. He also questioned the need for more witnesses.When Jackson said it sounded like Braun had made his decision, he did not dispute it. He also questioned the need for more witnesses.
“I don’t think they’re going to land much. … I think it belabors the point,” he said.“I don’t think they’re going to land much. … I think it belabors the point,” he said.
Braun predicted that a trial would begin Jan. 6 and last 10 days to two weeks, “if we give the whole process its due and if it doesn’t involve witnesses.”Braun predicted that a trial would begin Jan. 6 and last 10 days to two weeks, “if we give the whole process its due and if it doesn’t involve witnesses.”
Rep. Douglas A. Collins (Ga.), the top Republican on the House Judiciary Committee, said he would argue for Democrats to “give us as much time as they possibly can” during debate over impeachment on the House floor.Rep. Douglas A. Collins (Ga.), the top Republican on the House Judiciary Committee, said he would argue for Democrats to “give us as much time as they possibly can” during debate over impeachment on the House floor.
Collins is scheduled to appear before a meeting of the House Rules Committee alongside Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-Md.), a member of the Judiciary Committee who is filling in for House Judiciary Committee Jerrold Nadler (D-N.Y.).Collins is scheduled to appear before a meeting of the House Rules Committee alongside Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-Md.), a member of the Judiciary Committee who is filling in for House Judiciary Committee Jerrold Nadler (D-N.Y.).
The Rules Committee is tasked with setting the parameters for Wednesday’s debate on two articles of impeachment on the House floor. Collins said he would like to see eight hours of debate.The Rules Committee is tasked with setting the parameters for Wednesday’s debate on two articles of impeachment on the House floor. Collins said he would like to see eight hours of debate.
Collins suggested deliberation by the Rules Committee will not be pretty.Collins suggested deliberation by the Rules Committee will not be pretty.
“If you ever had a root canal, it would look very similar,” he said.“If you ever had a root canal, it would look very similar,” he said.
The story that appeared on the Hill website March 20 was startling.The story that appeared on the Hill website March 20 was startling.
Marie Yovanovitch, the U.S. ambassador to Ukraine, had given a “list of people whom we should not prosecute” to Ukraine’s prosecutor general, Yuri Lutsenko, according to a write-up of an interview Lutsenko gave to conservative columnist John Solomon.Marie Yovanovitch, the U.S. ambassador to Ukraine, had given a “list of people whom we should not prosecute” to Ukraine’s prosecutor general, Yuri Lutsenko, according to a write-up of an interview Lutsenko gave to conservative columnist John Solomon.
Five days later, an image of that purported list appeared in a post on the website Medium and on a number of other self-publishing platforms in locations as disparate as Germany, South Africa and San Francisco. In less than a week, the Medium essay had been translated into Spanish and German and posted to other websites.Five days later, an image of that purported list appeared in a post on the website Medium and on a number of other self-publishing platforms in locations as disparate as Germany, South Africa and San Francisco. In less than a week, the Medium essay had been translated into Spanish and German and posted to other websites.
Now, a social media analysis firm, Graphika, has traced those posts to a Russian disinformation campaign — in the first evidence that a network of accounts involved in spreading disinformation before the 2016 election also participated in circulating the false claims about Yovanovitch that led to her recall from the U.S. Embassy in Kyiv earlier this year.Now, a social media analysis firm, Graphika, has traced those posts to a Russian disinformation campaign — in the first evidence that a network of accounts involved in spreading disinformation before the 2016 election also participated in circulating the false claims about Yovanovitch that led to her recall from the U.S. Embassy in Kyiv earlier this year.
Read more here.Read more here.
While the House is expected to vote on impeachment articles Wednesday, it could be days before the managers for a Senate trial are named.While the House is expected to vote on impeachment articles Wednesday, it could be days before the managers for a Senate trial are named.
Two Democratic aides said Tuesday that a procedural measure setting up debate on the articles will empower House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) to name managers “at any point” after the House votes to impeach Trump.Two Democratic aides said Tuesday that a procedural measure setting up debate on the articles will empower House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) to name managers “at any point” after the House votes to impeach Trump.
The aides spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss private conversations.The aides spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss private conversations.
The question of which members Pelosi will name to present the House’s case has been a subject of fevered speculation on Capitol Hill, but leaders are keen to save the announcement for another day. In the past, the House has voted on a resolution naming the managers.The question of which members Pelosi will name to present the House’s case has been a subject of fevered speculation on Capitol Hill, but leaders are keen to save the announcement for another day. In the past, the House has voted on a resolution naming the managers.
“The rule will allow the speaker to name managers at any point after the articles pass,” a senior Democratic aide said. “There will be a debate and vote on that resolution.”“The rule will allow the speaker to name managers at any point after the articles pass,” a senior Democratic aide said. “There will be a debate and vote on that resolution.”
A Republican member of the House Rules Committee predicted that the atmosphere of partisan conflict that has dominated impeachment proceedings will continue during Tuesday’s meeting about the articles of impeachment.A Republican member of the House Rules Committee predicted that the atmosphere of partisan conflict that has dominated impeachment proceedings will continue during Tuesday’s meeting about the articles of impeachment.
“All of the drama you saw in the Committee on the Judiciary last week … I don’t expect any less drama today as these articles, or the rule for debating these articles, is set,” Rep. Michael C. Burgess (R-Tex.) told Fox News before the hearing.“All of the drama you saw in the Committee on the Judiciary last week … I don’t expect any less drama today as these articles, or the rule for debating these articles, is set,” Rep. Michael C. Burgess (R-Tex.) told Fox News before the hearing.
The Rules Committee is charged with setting terms for the floor debate over the articles, which is scheduled for Wednesday.The Rules Committee is charged with setting terms for the floor debate over the articles, which is scheduled for Wednesday.
Burgess said the meeting “should take some time,” but predicted it would be “significantly rushed” by Democrats.Burgess said the meeting “should take some time,” but predicted it would be “significantly rushed” by Democrats.
“That is not a good way to approach something this significant,” he said.“That is not a good way to approach something this significant,” he said.
Trump pointed to the performance of the stock market in arguing against his impeachment on Tuesday.Trump pointed to the performance of the stock market in arguing against his impeachment on Tuesday.
“The Stock Market hit another Record High yesterday, number 133 in less than three years as your all time favorite President, and the Radical Left, Do Nothing Democrats, want to impeach me,” Trump said in his first tweet of the morning. “Don’t worry, I have done nothing wrong. Actually, they have!”“The Stock Market hit another Record High yesterday, number 133 in less than three years as your all time favorite President, and the Radical Left, Do Nothing Democrats, want to impeach me,” Trump said in his first tweet of the morning. “Don’t worry, I have done nothing wrong. Actually, they have!”
Another freshman Democrat whose district voted for Trump announced Tuesday that she will vote in favor of articles of impeachment, arguing that Trump “put his own political interests before our country” in his dealings with Ukraine.Another freshman Democrat whose district voted for Trump announced Tuesday that she will vote in favor of articles of impeachment, arguing that Trump “put his own political interests before our country” in his dealings with Ukraine.
Rep. Mikie Sherrill (N.J.) cited her experience in the military and as a federal prosecutor in the statement about her decision: “After reviewing the testimony and the statements of the President himself, it is clear that he used his office for his own personal gain,” Sherrill stated. “In short, the President has violated the very principles upon which our country was founded.”Rep. Mikie Sherrill (N.J.) cited her experience in the military and as a federal prosecutor in the statement about her decision: “After reviewing the testimony and the statements of the President himself, it is clear that he used his office for his own personal gain,” Sherrill stated. “In short, the President has violated the very principles upon which our country was founded.”
As of Monday night, 35 Democrats and one Republican member of the House had not stated their position on impeachment, according to a tally by The Post.As of Monday night, 35 Democrats and one Republican member of the House had not stated their position on impeachment, according to a tally by The Post.
Sherrill was one of the seven freshmen Democrats who wrote in an op-ed for The Post in September that “if these allegations [against Trump] are true, we believe these actions represent an impeachable offense.”Sherrill was one of the seven freshmen Democrats who wrote in an op-ed for The Post in September that “if these allegations [against Trump] are true, we believe these actions represent an impeachable offense.”
Rep. Anthony Brindisi, a freshman from New York who was considered one of the Democrats most likely to break with his party on impeachment, announced Tuesday that he would vote in favor of both articles.Rep. Anthony Brindisi, a freshman from New York who was considered one of the Democrats most likely to break with his party on impeachment, announced Tuesday that he would vote in favor of both articles.
“It is with profound sadness I will vote to impeach President Trump,” Brindisi, whose district Trump carried in 2016, said in a tweet. In other tweets, he said: “President Trump is my President too. I’ve always said I would work with him to get things done, as I have demonstrated. However, I will always put Country first and stand up for what I believe in when I think he is wrong.”“It is with profound sadness I will vote to impeach President Trump,” Brindisi, whose district Trump carried in 2016, said in a tweet. In other tweets, he said: “President Trump is my President too. I’ve always said I would work with him to get things done, as I have demonstrated. However, I will always put Country first and stand up for what I believe in when I think he is wrong.”
Earlier, Brindisi told the Post-Standard of Syracuse, N.Y., that he believes it’s clear that Trump endangered national security by asking Zelensky for political favors in exchange for a White House visit and the release of nearly $400 million in military aid authorized by Congress.Earlier, Brindisi told the Post-Standard of Syracuse, N.Y., that he believes it’s clear that Trump endangered national security by asking Zelensky for political favors in exchange for a White House visit and the release of nearly $400 million in military aid authorized by Congress.
“The fact this president withheld aid from Ukraine for his own political gain is very troubling,” Brindisi said. “In fact, I think it’s unconstitutional.”“The fact this president withheld aid from Ukraine for his own political gain is very troubling,” Brindisi said. “In fact, I think it’s unconstitutional.”
White House counselor Kellyanne Conway on Tuesday dismissed calls by Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer (D-N.Y.) for new witnesses at a Senate trial as “whining” about process rather than substance.White House counselor Kellyanne Conway on Tuesday dismissed calls by Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer (D-N.Y.) for new witnesses at a Senate trial as “whining” about process rather than substance.
“He’s trying to get the fix in there early to say, ‘Oh the Senate trial was unfair,’ ” Conway said during an interview on Fox News’s “Fox & Friends.” “He has to pregame and complain that he feels left out, his feelings are hurt.”“He’s trying to get the fix in there early to say, ‘Oh the Senate trial was unfair,’ ” Conway said during an interview on Fox News’s “Fox & Friends.” “He has to pregame and complain that he feels left out, his feelings are hurt.”
Republicans lawmakers have consistently complained that the impeachment inquiry in the House has been unfair. Trump was invited to participate in the House process, but he refused.Republicans lawmakers have consistently complained that the impeachment inquiry in the House has been unfair. Trump was invited to participate in the House process, but he refused.
In recent days, Schumer has advocated calling several witnesses who declined to appear before House investigators, including acting White House chief of staff Mick Mulvaney and former national security adviser John Bolton.In recent days, Schumer has advocated calling several witnesses who declined to appear before House investigators, including acting White House chief of staff Mick Mulvaney and former national security adviser John Bolton.
House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler (D-N.Y.) will not be present at Tuesday’s Rules Committee meeting due to a family emergency, according to a Judiciary committee aide, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss personal matters.House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler (D-N.Y.) will not be present at Tuesday’s Rules Committee meeting due to a family emergency, according to a Judiciary committee aide, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss personal matters.
Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-Md.) has been tapped to fill in for Nadler, whose committee approved two articles of impeachment last week.Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-Md.) has been tapped to fill in for Nadler, whose committee approved two articles of impeachment last week.
The committee aide said lawmakers are hopeful that Nadler will return on Wednesday for the full House debate on impeachment.The committee aide said lawmakers are hopeful that Nadler will return on Wednesday for the full House debate on impeachment.
The House Rules Committee is scheduled to meet Tuesday at 11 a.m. to debate how the articles of impeachment will be debated and voted on by the full chamber on Wednesday.The House Rules Committee is scheduled to meet Tuesday at 11 a.m. to debate how the articles of impeachment will be debated and voted on by the full chamber on Wednesday.
Set to take place in a cramped room just off the House gallery, the session could last late into the night if Republicans offer numerous amendments. But the outcome is not in doubt, since Democrats hold a 9-to-4 majority on the panel.Set to take place in a cramped room just off the House gallery, the session could last late into the night if Republicans offer numerous amendments. But the outcome is not in doubt, since Democrats hold a 9-to-4 majority on the panel.
Next will come a procedural vote by the full House, expected around midday Wednesday, launching the debate, which is expected to last several hours and culminate in an evening vote on the two articles of impeachment. The House also is planning to vote on a resolution formally naming House managers, or prosecutors, for the Senate trial, who will be selected by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.).Next will come a procedural vote by the full House, expected around midday Wednesday, launching the debate, which is expected to last several hours and culminate in an evening vote on the two articles of impeachment. The House also is planning to vote on a resolution formally naming House managers, or prosecutors, for the Senate trial, who will be selected by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.).
The Senate trial is expected to start in early January.The Senate trial is expected to start in early January.
Congress has impeached only two presidents: Andrew Johnson in 1868 and Bill Clinton in 1998. President Richard Nixon resigned in 1974 before the House could vote on articles of impeachment in the Watergate scandal. Lawmakers drafted three articles against Nixon, including charges of “high crimes and misdemeanors” that mirror the abuse-of-power and obstruction allegations Trump now faces.Congress has impeached only two presidents: Andrew Johnson in 1868 and Bill Clinton in 1998. President Richard Nixon resigned in 1974 before the House could vote on articles of impeachment in the Watergate scandal. Lawmakers drafted three articles against Nixon, including charges of “high crimes and misdemeanors” that mirror the abuse-of-power and obstruction allegations Trump now faces.
As the House prepares to impeach Trump, he and first lady Melania Trump plan to welcome Guatemalan President Jimmy Morales and his wife, Patricia Marroquín, to the White House on Tuesday afternoon.As the House prepares to impeach Trump, he and first lady Melania Trump plan to welcome Guatemalan President Jimmy Morales and his wife, Patricia Marroquín, to the White House on Tuesday afternoon.
The four of them are scheduled to meet in the Oval Office before the two presidents hold an expanded bilateral meeting. The White House has said the visit is “an opportunity to thank President Morales for being the first Central American leader to sign and implement the historic Asylum Cooperation Agreement with the United States.”The four of them are scheduled to meet in the Oval Office before the two presidents hold an expanded bilateral meeting. The White House has said the visit is “an opportunity to thank President Morales for being the first Central American leader to sign and implement the historic Asylum Cooperation Agreement with the United States.”
Trump is also scheduled to participate in a Christmas reception at the White House on Tuesday afternoon.Trump is also scheduled to participate in a Christmas reception at the White House on Tuesday afternoon.
On the eve of Trump’s impeachment, a group of his conservative critics, including George Conway, the husband of White House counselor Kellyanne Conway, announced the launch of a new super PAC with the aim of defeating Trump and his “enablers” at the ballot box.On the eve of Trump’s impeachment, a group of his conservative critics, including George Conway, the husband of White House counselor Kellyanne Conway, announced the launch of a new super PAC with the aim of defeating Trump and his “enablers” at the ballot box.
“Our efforts are aimed at persuading enough disaffected conservatives, Republicans and Republican-leaning independents in swing states and districts to help ensure a victory in the Electoral College, and congressional majorities that don’t enable or abet Mr. Trump’s violations of the Constitution, even if that means Democratic control of the Senate and an expanded Democratic majority in the House,” four leaders of the group, dubbed the Lincoln Project, wrote in a New York Times op-ed.“Our efforts are aimed at persuading enough disaffected conservatives, Republicans and Republican-leaning independents in swing states and districts to help ensure a victory in the Electoral College, and congressional majorities that don’t enable or abet Mr. Trump’s violations of the Constitution, even if that means Democratic control of the Senate and an expanded Democratic majority in the House,” four leaders of the group, dubbed the Lincoln Project, wrote in a New York Times op-ed.
In addition to Conway, other authors of the piece include veteran GOP consultants Steve Schmidt, John Weaver and Rick Wilson. Others involved in the effort, according to the group’s website, include Reed Galen, an independent political strategist; Jennifer Horn, a former chairwoman of the New Hampshire Republican Party; and Mike Madrid, a Republican strategist.In addition to Conway, other authors of the piece include veteran GOP consultants Steve Schmidt, John Weaver and Rick Wilson. Others involved in the effort, according to the group’s website, include Reed Galen, an independent political strategist; Jennifer Horn, a former chairwoman of the New Hampshire Republican Party; and Mike Madrid, a Republican strategist.
In the op-ed, the group is critical not only of Trump but of congressional Republicans who have opposed the president’s impeachment.In the op-ed, the group is critical not only of Trump but of congressional Republicans who have opposed the president’s impeachment.
“Congressional Republicans have embraced and copied Mr. Trump’s cruelty and defended and even adopted his corruption,” the four authors write. “Mr. Trump and his enablers have abandoned conservatism and longstanding Republican principles and replaced it with Trumpism, an empty faith led by a bogus prophet.”“Congressional Republicans have embraced and copied Mr. Trump’s cruelty and defended and even adopted his corruption,” the four authors write. “Mr. Trump and his enablers have abandoned conservatism and longstanding Republican principles and replaced it with Trumpism, an empty faith led by a bogus prophet.”
As the House prepares to vote on two articles of impeachment against Trump, Americans remain both deeply divided and locked into their positions over which course lawmakers should pursue, according to a Washington Post-ABC News poll.As the House prepares to vote on two articles of impeachment against Trump, Americans remain both deeply divided and locked into their positions over which course lawmakers should pursue, according to a Washington Post-ABC News poll.
Weeks of public testimony and days of rancorous committee hearings on the president’s efforts to pressure Ukrainian leaders to investigate a political rival have had no impact on how Americans see the charges pending against the president.Weeks of public testimony and days of rancorous committee hearings on the president’s efforts to pressure Ukrainian leaders to investigate a political rival have had no impact on how Americans see the charges pending against the president.
Despite the stalemate, most Democrats and Republicans alike expect that a Senate impeachment trial will give Trump a fair hearing. Bipartisan majorities, including almost 2 in 3 Republicans, also say he should allow his top aides to testify, something he blocked during the House inquiry.Despite the stalemate, most Democrats and Republicans alike expect that a Senate impeachment trial will give Trump a fair hearing. Bipartisan majorities, including almost 2 in 3 Republicans, also say he should allow his top aides to testify, something he blocked during the House inquiry.
On the eve of the House vote, 49 percent of Americans say Trump should be impeached and removed from office, while 46 percent say he should not. Those are essentially identical to findings at the end of October, when 49 percent favored impeachment and removal and 47 percent were opposed. The latest poll also finds that regardless of whether Trump committed an impeachable offense, 49 percent say he improperly pressured Ukraine to investigate Biden and his son, while 39 percent say Trump did not do this.On the eve of the House vote, 49 percent of Americans say Trump should be impeached and removed from office, while 46 percent say he should not. Those are essentially identical to findings at the end of October, when 49 percent favored impeachment and removal and 47 percent were opposed. The latest poll also finds that regardless of whether Trump committed an impeachable offense, 49 percent say he improperly pressured Ukraine to investigate Biden and his son, while 39 percent say Trump did not do this.
Read more here.Read more here.
While the White House has prevented senior administration officials from appearing before the House committees conducting the impeachment investigation, a large 71 percent majority of Americans say the president should allow those officials to testify at a Senate trial, according to a Washington Post-ABC News poll.While the White House has prevented senior administration officials from appearing before the House committees conducting the impeachment investigation, a large 71 percent majority of Americans say the president should allow those officials to testify at a Senate trial, according to a Washington Post-ABC News poll.
Almost 2 in 3 Republicans want Trump to allow top aides to testify at Senate trialAlmost 2 in 3 Republicans want Trump to allow top aides to testify at Senate trial
That includes majorities across partisan and demographic lines. Among Democrats, 79 percent say Trump should let his advisers appear before the Senate, while 64 percent of Republicans agree. Among independents, 72 percent favor their appearance. There is also sizable agreement among men and women, whites and nonwhites, and all age groups, contrary to the divisions over impeachment itself.That includes majorities across partisan and demographic lines. Among Democrats, 79 percent say Trump should let his advisers appear before the Senate, while 64 percent of Republicans agree. Among independents, 72 percent favor their appearance. There is also sizable agreement among men and women, whites and nonwhites, and all age groups, contrary to the divisions over impeachment itself.
Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer (D-N.Y.) is advocating for several senior administration officials to testify, including acting White House chief of staff Mick Mulvaney and former national security adviser John Bolton.Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer (D-N.Y.) is advocating for several senior administration officials to testify, including acting White House chief of staff Mick Mulvaney and former national security adviser John Bolton.
Amy Kennedy, a former public school teacher and the wife of former congressman Patrick J. Kennedy (D-R.I.), announced late Monday that she is considering running for the congressional seat occupied by Rep. Jeff Van Drew, the freshman Democrat from New Jersey who opposes impeachment and is expected to switch parties.Amy Kennedy, a former public school teacher and the wife of former congressman Patrick J. Kennedy (D-R.I.), announced late Monday that she is considering running for the congressional seat occupied by Rep. Jeff Van Drew, the freshman Democrat from New Jersey who opposes impeachment and is expected to switch parties.
“My husband, Patrick J. Kennedy, and I have supported Congressman Jeff Van Drew in the past, but he has clearly lost his way,” Amy Kennedy, a New Jersey resident, said in a statement. “Today I am launching an exploratory committee to consider a run for the 2nd Congressional District of New Jersey. As a mother of five and a former public school teacher for thirteen years, running for office was not in my life plan, but Congressman Van Drew’s recent actions, including switching parties, proves that he is no longer putting the needs of the district first.”“My husband, Patrick J. Kennedy, and I have supported Congressman Jeff Van Drew in the past, but he has clearly lost his way,” Amy Kennedy, a New Jersey resident, said in a statement. “Today I am launching an exploratory committee to consider a run for the 2nd Congressional District of New Jersey. As a mother of five and a former public school teacher for thirteen years, running for office was not in my life plan, but Congressman Van Drew’s recent actions, including switching parties, proves that he is no longer putting the needs of the district first.”
Party switching is hit-or-miss in Congress as voters have final say on authenticityParty switching is hit-or-miss in Congress as voters have final say on authenticity
In an early morning tweet on Tuesday, Trump praised Van Drew.In an early morning tweet on Tuesday, Trump praised Van Drew.
“Congressman Jeff Van Drew is very popular in our great and very united Republican Party,” he wrote. “It was a tribute to him that he was able to win his heavily Republican district as a Democrat. People like that are not easily replaceable!”“Congressman Jeff Van Drew is very popular in our great and very united Republican Party,” he wrote. “It was a tribute to him that he was able to win his heavily Republican district as a Democrat. People like that are not easily replaceable!”