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Impeachment live updates: Bolton says he is prepared to testify in Senate trial if subpoenaed Impeachment live updates: Bolton says he is prepared to testify in Senate trial if subpoenaed
(32 minutes later)
Former national security adviser John Bolton, highly sought by Democrats as an impeachment witness, said Monday that he is prepared to testify in a Senate trial if a subpoena is issued — a move that could be damaging to President Trump.Former national security adviser John Bolton, highly sought by Democrats as an impeachment witness, said Monday that he is prepared to testify in a Senate trial if a subpoena is issued — a move that could be damaging to President Trump.
The development came as Trump called for a quick end to the impeachment process and congressional Republicans stepped up pressure on House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) to transmit articles to the Senate, allowing a trial to begin in the chamber. Pelosi has been holding on to the documents as Democrats seek guarantees about the scope of a Senate trial, including witnesses.The development came as Trump called for a quick end to the impeachment process and congressional Republicans stepped up pressure on House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) to transmit articles to the Senate, allowing a trial to begin in the chamber. Pelosi has been holding on to the documents as Democrats seek guarantees about the scope of a Senate trial, including witnesses.
The crux 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.The crux 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.
●Top Republican suggests changing Senate rules to begin Trump impeachment trial within days.●Top Republican suggests changing Senate rules to begin Trump impeachment trial within days.
●Escalating U.S.-Iran tensions scramble the politics of Trump’s impeachment.●Escalating U.S.-Iran tensions scramble the politics of Trump’s impeachment.
●Least deliberative Senate faces weighty task of holding Trump’s impeachment trial.●Least deliberative Senate faces weighty task of holding Trump’s impeachment trial.
Which senators support removing Trump | Which House members voted to impeach Trump | House resolution impeaching Trump | Other key documentsWhich senators support removing Trump | Which House members voted to impeach Trump | House resolution impeaching Trump | Other key documents
Sen. Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) suggested that he doesn’t want to hear from Bolton unless the House has struck a deal with the former national security adviser first.
It was unclear what type of scenario would satisfy that requirement, as the House has already voted to impeach Trump. Tillis said only that the House “should have gotten as much evidence as possible.”
“I’m in the position now to where I want to consider the weight of the evidence coming from the House,” Tillis said. “I don’t want to do their work.”
“It’s not that I don’t want to hear from him,” he added. “I want to hear from him when the House is willing to do their work and have the same agreement with the ambassador on their side of the Hill.”
House Intelligence Committee Chairman Adam B. Schiff (D-Calif.) told reporters at the Capitol that Bolton “really should testify in the Senate trial.”House Intelligence Committee Chairman Adam B. Schiff (D-Calif.) told reporters at the Capitol that Bolton “really should testify in the Senate trial.”
“That makes the most sense,” Schiff said in response to a question on whether he would directly seek testimony from Bolton. “The senators ought to hear directly from him as well as the other witnesses. And they need to start by giving the documents.”“That makes the most sense,” Schiff said in response to a question on whether he would directly seek testimony from Bolton. “The senators ought to hear directly from him as well as the other witnesses. And they need to start by giving the documents.”
Sen. Mitt Romney (R-Utah), who has at times been critical of Trump, also said he supports Bolton testifying in the Senate, although he declined to elaborate on the process he believes the chamber should follow.Sen. Mitt Romney (R-Utah), who has at times been critical of Trump, also said he supports Bolton testifying in the Senate, although he declined to elaborate on the process he believes the chamber should follow.
“I would like to be able to hear from John Bolton,” Romney said. “What the process is to make that happen, I don’t have an answer for you. The leaders are trying to negotiate that process right now. ... What’s important is that we hear from him.” “I would like to be able to hear from John Bolton,” Romney said. “What the process is to make that happen, I don’t have an answer for you. The leaders are trying to negotiate that process right now. … What’s important is that we hear from him.”
Sen. Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), meanwhile, didn’t rule out testimony from Bolton but sided solidly with Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) on a two-stage plan.Sen. Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), meanwhile, didn’t rule out testimony from Bolton but sided solidly with Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) on a two-stage plan.
“We won’t make a decision on it until we hear the House’s argument,” Rounds said.“We won’t make a decision on it until we hear the House’s argument,” Rounds said.
Secretary of State Mike Pompeo spoke with Zelensky on Monday to discuss his postponed trip to Ukraine, according to State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus.Secretary of State Mike Pompeo spoke with Zelensky on Monday to discuss his postponed trip to Ukraine, according to State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus.
Pompeo had been scheduled to visit Ukraine and four other countries last week but delayed the trip due to the breach of the U.S. embassy in Baghdad. Pompeo had been scheduled to visit Ukraine and four other countries last week but delayed the trip due to the breach of the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad.
Pompeo and Zelensky “discussed the situation in the Middle East and the Secretary appreciated Ukraine’s condemnation of the attack on the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad,” Ortagus said. “Secretary Pompeo reiterated the strong U.S. support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and underscored our long-term strategic partnership.”Pompeo and Zelensky “discussed the situation in the Middle East and the Secretary appreciated Ukraine’s condemnation of the attack on the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad,” Ortagus said. “Secretary Pompeo reiterated the strong U.S. support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and underscored our long-term strategic partnership.”
There was no immediate word of potential dates for a future visit by Pompeo to Ukraine.There was no immediate word of potential dates for a future visit by Pompeo to Ukraine.
Sen. John Cornyn (R-Tex.) mused Monday that Bolton’s testimony could be helpful to Trump, although he stopped short of saying whether he would vote in favor of subpoenaing Bolton to testify.Sen. John Cornyn (R-Tex.) mused Monday that Bolton’s testimony could be helpful to Trump, although he stopped short of saying whether he would vote in favor of subpoenaing Bolton to testify.
“Well, I think it’s entirely likely that his testimony would be helpful to the president, because it would identify, basically, a foreign-policy dispute which is reserved to the president under the Constitution — it’s really his sole authority — as a basis for impeachment, for this, now, the third time in American history,” Cornyn said in an interview on Fox News Radio’s “Guy Benson Show.” “So, it could well be beneficial.”“Well, I think it’s entirely likely that his testimony would be helpful to the president, because it would identify, basically, a foreign-policy dispute which is reserved to the president under the Constitution — it’s really his sole authority — as a basis for impeachment, for this, now, the third time in American history,” Cornyn said in an interview on Fox News Radio’s “Guy Benson Show.” “So, it could well be beneficial.”
Cornyn added that he would “expect anyone who was subpoenaed by the vote of 51 senators to respond.” But when asked whether he personally would vote to subpoena Bolton, he dodged the question.Cornyn added that he would “expect anyone who was subpoenaed by the vote of 51 senators to respond.” But when asked whether he personally would vote to subpoena Bolton, he dodged the question.
“Well, I would want to know what he has to offer that would help illuminate the issues, the two articles of impeachment that have been issued by the House of Representatives,” Cornyn said.“Well, I would want to know what he has to offer that would help illuminate the issues, the two articles of impeachment that have been issued by the House of Representatives,” Cornyn said.
The Texas Republican later clarified his remarks in a tweet, arguing that the Senate should hold off on calling additional witnesses for the time being.The Texas Republican later clarified his remarks in a tweet, arguing that the Senate should hold off on calling additional witnesses for the time being.
“Let’s first proceed as 100 Senators agreed during Clinton’s impeachment: hear from the parties and reserve question of additional witnesses till they have presented their case,” he said.“Let’s first proceed as 100 Senators agreed during Clinton’s impeachment: hear from the parties and reserve question of additional witnesses till they have presented their case,” he said.
Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer (D-N.Y.) delivered a blistering rebuke of McConnell’s position on an impeachment trial Monday afternoon. The Kentucky Republican, Schumer argued, believes the Senate trial “should proceed according to the desires of the White House — the defendant in this case.”Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer (D-N.Y.) delivered a blistering rebuke of McConnell’s position on an impeachment trial Monday afternoon. The Kentucky Republican, Schumer argued, believes the Senate trial “should proceed according to the desires of the White House — the defendant in this case.”
Schumer pledged that Democrats will ask for votes on each of the four witnesses they want to call, warning McConnell, “Make no mistake: There will be votes.”Schumer pledged that Democrats will ask for votes on each of the four witnesses they want to call, warning McConnell, “Make no mistake: There will be votes.”
“Witnesses and documents are the most important issue, and we should deal with them first,” he said.“Witnesses and documents are the most important issue, and we should deal with them first,” he said.
Schumer notably made no mention of a potential negotiated deal with McConnell on the matter, instead delivering a critique of his Republican counterpart and describing McConnell’s position as “a poorly disguised trap.”Schumer notably made no mention of a potential negotiated deal with McConnell on the matter, instead delivering a critique of his Republican counterpart and describing McConnell’s position as “a poorly disguised trap.”
“I’m waiting to hear it, Leader McConnell. ... Don’t call names. Don’t finger-point. Don’t get angry at Nancy Pelosi. Tell us why here in the Senate witnesses and documents should not come forward that are directly relevant to the charges against the president of the United States of America,” he said. “I’m waiting to hear it, Leader McConnell. … Don’t call names. Don’t finger-point. Don’t get angry at Nancy Pelosi. Tell us why here in the Senate witnesses and documents should not come forward that are directly relevant to the charges against the president of the United States of America,” he said.
McConnell opened the Senate on Monday by arguing that “seriousness is in short supply” among Democrats on two issues: hostilities with Iran and Trump’s impeachment.McConnell opened the Senate on Monday by arguing that “seriousness is in short supply” among Democrats on two issues: hostilities with Iran and Trump’s impeachment.
Pelosi, he contended, is “sitting on the articles” she previously claimed were “so very urgent.”Pelosi, he contended, is “sitting on the articles” she previously claimed were “so very urgent.”
“These bizarre stunts do not serve our Constitution or our national security. They erode both. ... The American people deserve better — a lot better — than this,” he added. “These bizarre stunts do not serve our Constitution or our national security. They erode both. … The American people deserve better — a lot better — than this,” he added.
McConnell did not mention Bolton by name but accused Democrats of deviating from the precedent set by President Bill Clinton’s impeachment and trying to “write new rules for President Trump” — signaling that he would not consider witnesses before the proceedings get underway.McConnell did not mention Bolton by name but accused Democrats of deviating from the precedent set by President Bill Clinton’s impeachment and trying to “write new rules for President Trump” — signaling that he would not consider witnesses before the proceedings get underway.
“The Senate has a unanimous, bipartisan precedent for when to handle mid-trial questions such as witnesses in the middle of the trial ... and that’s the way it should be done this time,” he said, adding: “That was good enough for President Clinton, so it ought to be good enough for President Trump. Fair is fair.” “The Senate has a unanimous, bipartisan precedent for when to handle mid-trial questions such as witnesses in the middle of the trial … and that’s the way it should be done this time,” he said, adding: “That was good enough for President Clinton, so it ought to be good enough for President Trump. Fair is fair.”
Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) went on Twitter Monday to pour cold water on the idea of Bolton testifying before the Senate. The Florida Republican argued that the Senate should not consider any documents or witness testimony beyond what the House has already reviewed.Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) went on Twitter Monday to pour cold water on the idea of Bolton testifying before the Senate. The Florida Republican argued that the Senate should not consider any documents or witness testimony beyond what the House has already reviewed.
“The testimony & evidence considered in a Senate impeachment trial should be the same testimony & evidence the House relied upon when they passed the Articles of Impeachment,” Rubio tweeted. “Our job is to vote on what the House passed, not to conduct an open ended inquiry.”“The testimony & evidence considered in a Senate impeachment trial should be the same testimony & evidence the House relied upon when they passed the Articles of Impeachment,” Rubio tweeted. “Our job is to vote on what the House passed, not to conduct an open ended inquiry.”
His statement drew a sharp rebuke from Sen. Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii).His statement drew a sharp rebuke from Sen. Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii).
“Nonsense,” Schatz tweeted. “John Bolton has information relevant to the first Article of Impeachment. He has direct knowledge. What Marco is saying here is that the Senate should not conduct a fair trial at all — that we move directly from opening statements to closing arguments and a vote.”“Nonsense,” Schatz tweeted. “John Bolton has information relevant to the first Article of Impeachment. He has direct knowledge. What Marco is saying here is that the Senate should not conduct a fair trial at all — that we move directly from opening statements to closing arguments and a vote.”
Their back-and-forth came shortly before the Senate opened for business Monday afternoon, with McConnell and Schumer expected to address impeachment in their floor remarks.Their back-and-forth came shortly before the Senate opened for business Monday afternoon, with McConnell and Schumer expected to address impeachment in their floor remarks.
During an appearance on Rush Limbaugh’s radio show Monday afternoon, Trump continued to criticize House Democrats for impeaching him, calling the process a “hoax.” He also claimed the results of the investigation led by former special counsel Robert S. Mueller III proved that Democrats found “nothing” on him.During an appearance on Rush Limbaugh’s radio show Monday afternoon, Trump continued to criticize House Democrats for impeaching him, calling the process a “hoax.” He also claimed the results of the investigation led by former special counsel Robert S. Mueller III proved that Democrats found “nothing” on him.
“Even I was impressed with how clean I am, Rush,” Trump said.“Even I was impressed with how clean I am, Rush,” Trump said.
Mueller has said his team found insufficient evidence to allege a conspiracy between the Trump campaign and Russia to influence the election.Mueller has said his team found insufficient evidence to allege a conspiracy between the Trump campaign and Russia to influence the election.
But on the question of whether Trump obstructed justice, Mueller’s report said that because of Justice Department policy preventing the indictment of a sitting president, he would not decide — even privately — whether the evidence was sufficient to charge Trump with a crime.But on the question of whether Trump obstructed justice, Mueller’s report said that because of Justice Department policy preventing the indictment of a sitting president, he would not decide — even privately — whether the evidence was sufficient to charge Trump with a crime.
Trump also renewed his attacks on Pelosi, accusing the House speaker and other Democrats of trying to influence the 2020 election by withholding the articles of impeachment.Trump also renewed his attacks on Pelosi, accusing the House speaker and other Democrats of trying to influence the 2020 election by withholding the articles of impeachment.
“I think what they’re trying to do is affect the election, illegally. … They are a joke. They are not crimes. There is nothing there. They found nothing,” Trump said.“I think what they’re trying to do is affect the election, illegally. … They are a joke. They are not crimes. There is nothing there. They found nothing,” Trump said.
He added: “They created a situation that was false, that was fraudulent, and then they investigated the false, fraudulent situation.”He added: “They created a situation that was false, that was fraudulent, and then they investigated the false, fraudulent situation.”
Bolton’s testimony would be almost certainly be politically damaging to Trump, according to a person close to him who was not authorized to discuss private conversations.Bolton’s testimony would be almost certainly be politically damaging to Trump, according to a person close to him who was not authorized to discuss private conversations.
In recent months, Bolton has confided to friends that he was deeply troubled by his time at the White House and by the president’s behavior, but he has declined to offer many details, the person said, adding that Bolton’s support for Trump’s hard line on Iran would not influence any possible testimony.In recent months, Bolton has confided to friends that he was deeply troubled by his time at the White House and by the president’s behavior, but he has declined to offer many details, the person said, adding that Bolton’s support for Trump’s hard line on Iran would not influence any possible testimony.
“Those are different issues. One doesn’t affect the other,” the person said.“Those are different issues. One doesn’t affect the other,” the person said.
Still, other Bolton associates have privately said that he wants a future in Republican politics and does not want to be seen as a turncoat on Trump or someone who is trying to ingratiate himself with the president’s critics. They noted, for instance, that his statement Monday came from his political action committee’s office as an example of how he’s trying to build out his operation even as he deals with legal issues.Still, other Bolton associates have privately said that he wants a future in Republican politics and does not want to be seen as a turncoat on Trump or someone who is trying to ingratiate himself with the president’s critics. They noted, for instance, that his statement Monday came from his political action committee’s office as an example of how he’s trying to build out his operation even as he deals with legal issues.
Sen. Doug Jones (D-Ala.), who has not indicated how he might vote in a Senate trial, said Monday that he wants to hear Bolton’s testimony.Sen. Doug Jones (D-Ala.), who has not indicated how he might vote in a Senate trial, said Monday that he wants to hear Bolton’s testimony.
“Regardless of what Bolton’s testimony might be, I want to hear from him and review his documents,” Jones tweeted. “Why wouldn’t anyone if they were committed to #ImpartialJustice?”“Regardless of what Bolton’s testimony might be, I want to hear from him and review his documents,” Jones tweeted. “Why wouldn’t anyone if they were committed to #ImpartialJustice?”
After Bolton’s statement, Pelosi took to Twitter to claim that Trump and McConnell have “run out of excuses.”After Bolton’s statement, Pelosi took to Twitter to claim that Trump and McConnell have “run out of excuses.”
“They must allow key witnesses to testify, and produce the documents Trump has blocked, so Americans can see the facts for themselves,” Pelosi tweeted. “The Senate cannot be complicit in the President’s cover-up.”“They must allow key witnesses to testify, and produce the documents Trump has blocked, so Americans can see the facts for themselves,” Pelosi tweeted. “The Senate cannot be complicit in the President’s cover-up.”
Schiff also called for an end to a “coverup” by the Senate.Schiff also called for an end to a “coverup” by the Senate.
“Bolton is an important witness to misconduct involving Ukraine that he called a ‘drug deal,’ ” Schiff tweeted. “Bolton refused to testify in the House, following Trump’s orders. Now he is willing to come forward.”“Bolton is an important witness to misconduct involving Ukraine that he called a ‘drug deal,’ ” Schiff tweeted. “Bolton refused to testify in the House, following Trump’s orders. Now he is willing to come forward.”
“The Senate must allow testimony from him, Mulvaney and others,” Schiff added, referring to acting White House chief of staff Mick Mulvaney, another witness Democrats want to hear from. “The coverup must end.”“The Senate must allow testimony from him, Mulvaney and others,” Schiff added, referring to acting White House chief of staff Mick Mulvaney, another witness Democrats want to hear from. “The coverup must end.”
Schiff gave no indication as to whether the House might try to subpoena Bolton. His statement referred only to testifying before the Senate.Schiff gave no indication as to whether the House might try to subpoena Bolton. His statement referred only to testifying before the Senate.
Schumer said Monday that Bolton’s statement provides “momentum for uncovering the truth” in a Senate trial and that denying him a chance to testify would amount to a “cover up.”Schumer said Monday that Bolton’s statement provides “momentum for uncovering the truth” in a Senate trial and that denying him a chance to testify would amount to a “cover up.”
Bolton is among four administration officials who did not participate in House impeachment proceedings whom Schumer has said should be subpoenaed to testify in a Senate trial. He has urged four Republicans to vote with the 47 members of the Democratic caucus to issue those subpoenas.Bolton is among four administration officials who did not participate in House impeachment proceedings whom Schumer has said should be subpoenaed to testify in a Senate trial. He has urged four Republicans to vote with the 47 members of the Democratic caucus to issue those subpoenas.
“John Bolton correctly acknowledged that he needs to comply with a Senate subpoena to compel his testimony, if issued,” Schumer said in a statement. “It is now up to four Senate Republicans to support bringing in Mr. Bolton, and the other three witnesses, as well as the key documents we have requested to ensure all the evidence is presented at the onset of a Senate trial.”“John Bolton correctly acknowledged that he needs to comply with a Senate subpoena to compel his testimony, if issued,” Schumer said in a statement. “It is now up to four Senate Republicans to support bringing in Mr. Bolton, and the other three witnesses, as well as the key documents we have requested to ensure all the evidence is presented at the onset of a Senate trial.”
“Given that Mr. Bolton’s lawyers have stated he has new relevant information to share, if any Senate Republican opposes issuing subpoenas to the four witnesses and documents we have requested they would make absolutely clear they are participating in a cover up,” Schumer added.“Given that Mr. Bolton’s lawyers have stated he has new relevant information to share, if any Senate Republican opposes issuing subpoenas to the four witnesses and documents we have requested they would make absolutely clear they are participating in a cover up,” Schumer added.
Bolton’s statement Monday referred only to his willingness to testify in the Senate and did not address how the former national security adviser would respond to a House subpoena if one were issued.Bolton’s statement Monday referred only to his willingness to testify in the Senate and did not address how the former national security adviser would respond to a House subpoena if one were issued.
When asked whether Bolton would testify if subpoenaed by the House, his lawyer, Charles Cooper, responded by directing reporters to the statement Bolton posted earlier Monday. Cooper declined to provide more information.When asked whether Bolton would testify if subpoenaed by the House, his lawyer, Charles Cooper, responded by directing reporters to the statement Bolton posted earlier Monday. Cooper declined to provide more information.
Even though Trump has already been impeached by the House, House Democrats could attempt to call Bolton to testify at a future hearing.Even though Trump has already been impeached by the House, House Democrats could attempt to call Bolton to testify at a future hearing.
Bolton is considered an important witness by Democrats because he had been closely aligned with National Security Council aides who testified about his concerns about Trump’s conduct toward Ukraine. Among them are the former Russian affairs director Fiona Hill and the Ukraine expert Lt. Col. Alexander Vindman.Bolton is considered an important witness by Democrats because he had been closely aligned with National Security Council aides who testified about his concerns about Trump’s conduct toward Ukraine. Among them are the former Russian affairs director Fiona Hill and the Ukraine expert Lt. Col. Alexander Vindman.
Hill told lawmakers that Bolton exploded in frustration after a White House meeting July 10 in which Gordon Sondland, the U.S. ambassador to the European Union, pressed Ukrainian officials to open investigations into Biden and the 2016 campaign. Bolton is said to have equated the discussions to a “drug deal.”Hill told lawmakers that Bolton exploded in frustration after a White House meeting July 10 in which Gordon Sondland, the U.S. ambassador to the European Union, pressed Ukrainian officials to open investigations into Biden and the 2016 campaign. Bolton is said to have equated the discussions to a “drug deal.”
Bolton directed Hill to report what she had witnessed to John Eisenberg, the top lawyer for the National Security Council. Vindman reported the episode to Eisenberg.Bolton directed Hill to report what she had witnessed to John Eisenberg, the top lawyer for the National Security Council. Vindman reported the episode to Eisenberg.
If he testifies, people familiar with Bolton’s tenure at the NSC expect him to corroborate their testimony that he was aghast that U.S. military aid was being held back as the president and his allies were pressuring Ukraine to open investigations that could be damaging to Democrats, according to the people familiar with his views.If he testifies, people familiar with Bolton’s tenure at the NSC expect him to corroborate their testimony that he was aghast that U.S. military aid was being held back as the president and his allies were pressuring Ukraine to open investigations that could be damaging to Democrats, according to the people familiar with his views.
However, the people note that Bolton also has an expansive view of presidential power. As a result, it is unclear whether he would testify that he believes Trump overstepped his constitutional authority in his dealings with Ukraine.However, the people note that Bolton also has an expansive view of presidential power. As a result, it is unclear whether he would testify that he believes Trump overstepped his constitutional authority in his dealings with Ukraine.
Separately, William B. Taylor Jr., the then-acting ambassador to Ukraine, testified that Bolton was “very sympathetic” when he expressed concerns to the then-national security adviser that the aid was being withheld.Separately, William B. Taylor Jr., the then-acting ambassador to Ukraine, testified that Bolton was “very sympathetic” when he expressed concerns to the then-national security adviser that the aid was being withheld.
Bolton recommended that Taylor send a “first person” cable to Pompeo about his concerns, noting that such cables are rare and would be bound to get attention, Taylor told lawmakers.Bolton recommended that Taylor send a “first person” cable to Pompeo about his concerns, noting that such cables are rare and would be bound to get attention, Taylor told lawmakers.
Taylor also testified that other State Department officials had told him that Bolton was working to get the aid money for Ukraine released by returning authority over the funds to the secretaries of state and defense and the CIA director.Taylor also testified that other State Department officials had told him that Bolton was working to get the aid money for Ukraine released by returning authority over the funds to the secretaries of state and defense and the CIA director.
The White House has asserted a broad claim that current or past senior advisers such as Bolton have “absolute immunity” from providing testimony to lawmakers, part of resistance by the Trump administration to congressional oversight.The White House has asserted a broad claim that current or past senior advisers such as Bolton have “absolute immunity” from providing testimony to lawmakers, part of resistance by the Trump administration to congressional oversight.
Trump returned to Twitter on Monday to share a pair of videos of a Fox News commentator defending the president’s conduct toward Ukraine and criticizing Democrats for the impeachment effort.Trump returned to Twitter on Monday to share a pair of videos of a Fox News commentator defending the president’s conduct toward Ukraine and criticizing Democrats for the impeachment effort.
Both clips featured Jesse Watters, host of “Watters’ World.”Both clips featured Jesse Watters, host of “Watters’ World.”
In one, from October, Watters defended Trump’s efforts to press for investigations of the Bidens in both Ukraine in China. In the other, from last month, Watters characterized the House impeachment inquiry as “impeachment lite,” suggesting that the underlying charges were not serious.In one, from October, Watters defended Trump’s efforts to press for investigations of the Bidens in both Ukraine in China. In the other, from last month, Watters characterized the House impeachment inquiry as “impeachment lite,” suggesting that the underlying charges were not serious.
Former national security adviser John Bolton said Monday that he is “prepared to testify” if called as a witness by the Senate.Former national security adviser John Bolton said Monday that he is “prepared to testify” if called as a witness by the Senate.
Bolton’s attorney previously said he would be guided by the courts on whether to testify in the impeachment proceedings. But Bolton said in a statement Monday that “a final judicial resolution” appears unlikely before a Senate trial.Bolton’s attorney previously said he would be guided by the courts on whether to testify in the impeachment proceedings. But Bolton said in a statement Monday that “a final judicial resolution” appears unlikely before a Senate trial.
“Accordingly, since my testimony is once again at issue, I have had to resolve the serious competing issues as best I could, based on careful consideration and study,” he said. “I have concluded that, if the Senate issues a subpoena for my testimony, I am prepared to testify.”“Accordingly, since my testimony is once again at issue, I have had to resolve the serious competing issues as best I could, based on careful consideration and study,” he said. “I have concluded that, if the Senate issues a subpoena for my testimony, I am prepared to testify.”
Bolton is among four witnesses that Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer (D-N.Y.) is pressing to subpoena as part of a Senate trial of Trump.Bolton is among four witnesses that Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer (D-N.Y.) is pressing to subpoena as part of a Senate trial of Trump.
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) has resisted, saying senators should wait to determine which, if any, witnesses to call until after hearing opening statements from House impeachment managers and Trump’s lawyers.Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) has resisted, saying senators should wait to determine which, if any, witnesses to call until after hearing opening statements from House impeachment managers and Trump’s lawyers.
Bolton could be a powerful witness for Democrats: Top State Department and national security officials testified that he was deeply concerned about efforts by Trump and his allies to push Ukraine to open investigations into the Bidens while the Trump administration held up military aid to the country.Bolton could be a powerful witness for Democrats: Top State Department and national security officials testified that he was deeply concerned about efforts by Trump and his allies to push Ukraine to open investigations into the Bidens while the Trump administration held up military aid to the country.
Bolton, who abruptly left his post in September, would be expected to confirm those witnesses’ statements and describe his conversations with Trump, according to the people, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because of the ongoing inquiry.Bolton, who abruptly left his post in September, would be expected to confirm those witnesses’ statements and describe his conversations with Trump, according to the people, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because of the ongoing inquiry.
With the impasse over a Senate trial continuing, Rep. Ro Khanna (D-Calif.) on Monday suggested one way out: Let Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. decide which witnesses must testify.With the impasse over a Senate trial continuing, Rep. Ro Khanna (D-Calif.) on Monday suggested one way out: Let Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. decide which witnesses must testify.
“If Senator McConnell agrees that Justice Roberts should make the rules of who gets to testify — a Bush appointee — he would have absolutely no debate from any of the Democrats,” Khanna said, referring to Roberts’s 2005 nomination by then-President George W. Bush, a Republican.“If Senator McConnell agrees that Justice Roberts should make the rules of who gets to testify — a Bush appointee — he would have absolutely no debate from any of the Democrats,” Khanna said, referring to Roberts’s 2005 nomination by then-President George W. Bush, a Republican.
Under the Constitution, the chief justice presides over presidential impeachment trials, but the rules traditionally have been set by the senators.Under the Constitution, the chief justice presides over presidential impeachment trials, but the rules traditionally have been set by the senators.
Democrats are seeking an upfront guarantee that several witnesses who declined to participate in the House impeachment proceedings, including acting White House chief of staff Mick Mulvaney, will be called during a Senate trial.Democrats are seeking an upfront guarantee that several witnesses who declined to participate in the House impeachment proceedings, including acting White House chief of staff Mick Mulvaney, will be called during a Senate trial.
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) has said a decision about witnesses should be made after opening statements by House impeachment managers and Trump’s lawyers.Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) has said a decision about witnesses should be made after opening statements by House impeachment managers and Trump’s lawyers.
White House counselor Kellyanne Conway on Monday chided Pelosi for the delay in transmitting articles of impeachment, saying, “Let’s get on with it already.”White House counselor Kellyanne Conway on Monday chided Pelosi for the delay in transmitting articles of impeachment, saying, “Let’s get on with it already.”
Speaking to reporters at the White House, Conway suggested a contradiction between previous claims by Democrats that Trump poses an immediate threat and their current posture.Speaking to reporters at the White House, Conway suggested a contradiction between previous claims by Democrats that Trump poses an immediate threat and their current posture.
“Which is it?” Conway said. “Is the president an imminent threat to the republic, a clear and present danger who must be removed immediately? Or did [Pelosi] take a little mini-sabbatical over the break?”“Which is it?” Conway said. “Is the president an imminent threat to the republic, a clear and present danger who must be removed immediately? Or did [Pelosi] take a little mini-sabbatical over the break?”
Conway said Trump has no interest in delaying a trial.Conway said Trump has no interest in delaying a trial.
“He knows the trial is going nowhere,” she said. “He wants a full and fair trial, but that doesn’t mean a lengthy one. Those articles of impeachment are very thin.”“He knows the trial is going nowhere,” she said. “He wants a full and fair trial, but that doesn’t mean a lengthy one. Those articles of impeachment are very thin.”
Democrats, Conway added, “know their case was very obtuse, was very weak, very specious … So delay a trial for what reason? I mean, let’s get on with it already.”Democrats, Conway added, “know their case was very obtuse, was very weak, very specious … So delay a trial for what reason? I mean, let’s get on with it already.”
Trump called for a quick end to the impeachment process on Monday, as it remained unclear when Pelosi might send articles of impeachment to the Senate, allowing for a trial to begin.Trump called for a quick end to the impeachment process on Monday, as it remained unclear when Pelosi might send articles of impeachment to the Senate, allowing for a trial to begin.
“The Impeachment Hoax, just a continuation of the Witch Hunt which started even before I won the Election, must end quickly,” Trump, who has been focused on tensions with Iran, said in a tweet.“The Impeachment Hoax, just a continuation of the Witch Hunt which started even before I won the Election, must end quickly,” Trump, who has been focused on tensions with Iran, said in a tweet.
His demand reflected a change in thinking that has taken shape in recent weeks. Trump had called for a long Senate trial that would allow his lawyers to call several witnesses, including the Bidens and the anonymous whistleblower whose complaint sparked the inquiry.His demand reflected a change in thinking that has taken shape in recent weeks. Trump had called for a long Senate trial that would allow his lawyers to call several witnesses, including the Bidens and the anonymous whistleblower whose complaint sparked the inquiry.
“Congress & the President should not be wasting their time and energy on a continuation of the totally partisan Impeachment Hoax when we have so many important matters pending,” Trump said in one tweet Monday morning.“Congress & the President should not be wasting their time and energy on a continuation of the totally partisan Impeachment Hoax when we have so many important matters pending,” Trump said in one tweet Monday morning.
In another tweet, Trump repeated his argument that rough transcripts of his calls with Zelensky showed “NO PRESSURE” to conduct investigations that would benefit him politically.In another tweet, Trump repeated his argument that rough transcripts of his calls with Zelensky showed “NO PRESSURE” to conduct investigations that would benefit him politically.
“It is a con game by the Dems to help with the Election!” Trump said of the impeachment process.“It is a con game by the Dems to help with the Election!” Trump said of the impeachment process.
Trump on Monday criticized Democrats for spending time on impeachment when “I am so busy,” seemingly a reference to the hostilities with Iran.Trump on Monday criticized Democrats for spending time on impeachment when “I am so busy,” seemingly a reference to the hostilities with Iran.
“The great Scam continues,” Trump said in a morning tweet. “To be spending time on this political Hoax at this moment in our history, when I am so busy, is sad!”“The great Scam continues,” Trump said in a morning tweet. “To be spending time on this political Hoax at this moment in our history, when I am so busy, is sad!”
In his tweet, Trump also quoted Sen. Lindsey O. Graham (R-S.C.) from an television appearance over the weekend in which he criticized House Democrats for being “so weak and so pathetic” for holding on to the articles of impeachment.In his tweet, Trump also quoted Sen. Lindsey O. Graham (R-S.C.) from an television appearance over the weekend in which he criticized House Democrats for being “so weak and so pathetic” for holding on to the articles of impeachment.
Rep. Katherine M. Clark (D-Mass.) chided Senate Republicans on Monday, saying they are acting like a “lap dog” to Trump.Rep. Katherine M. Clark (D-Mass.) chided Senate Republicans on Monday, saying they are acting like a “lap dog” to Trump.
Democrats are seeking guarantees that a Senate trial will include documents relevant to Trump’s conduct toward Ukraine and several witnesses, including acting White House chief of staff Mick Mulvaney, who declined to participate in the House impeachment proceedings.Democrats are seeking guarantees that a Senate trial will include documents relevant to Trump’s conduct toward Ukraine and several witnesses, including acting White House chief of staff Mick Mulvaney, who declined to participate in the House impeachment proceedings.
Senate leaders have resisted, saying the chamber should wait to vote on calling witnesses until after House managers and lawyers for Trump make opening statements.Senate leaders have resisted, saying the chamber should wait to vote on calling witnesses until after House managers and lawyers for Trump make opening statements.
“We have impeached in the House, and the Senate needs to stop being a lap dog to this president and remember that their oath is to the Constitution and the American people,” Clark said during an appearance on CNN.“We have impeached in the House, and the Senate needs to stop being a lap dog to this president and remember that their oath is to the Constitution and the American people,” Clark said during an appearance on CNN.
Amy Kennedy, a former public school teacher and the wife of former congressman Patrick J. Kennedy (D-R.I.), announced Monday that she is running for the congressional seat occupied by Rep. Jeff Van Drew, the freshman Democratic lawmaker from New Jersey who opposed impeachment and switched his party affiliation to Republican. She lives in the congressional district.Amy Kennedy, a former public school teacher and the wife of former congressman Patrick J. Kennedy (D-R.I.), announced Monday that she is running for the congressional seat occupied by Rep. Jeff Van Drew, the freshman Democratic lawmaker from New Jersey who opposed impeachment and switched his party affiliation to Republican. She lives in the congressional district.
In an announcement video, Kennedy included footage of Van Drew meeting with Trump in the Oval Office of the White House to announce he was no longer a Democrat.In an announcement video, Kennedy included footage of Van Drew meeting with Trump in the Oval Office of the White House to announce he was no longer a Democrat.
“Too many of our leaders have lost their moral compass,” Amy Kennedy said in the video. “Trump and Van Drew are symptoms of a bigger sickness infecting our country and our politics.”“Too many of our leaders have lost their moral compass,” Amy Kennedy said in the video. “Trump and Van Drew are symptoms of a bigger sickness infecting our country and our politics.”
Read more here.Read more here.
Former House speaker Newt Gingrich (R-Ga.) sharply criticized Pelosi on Monday for holding on to the articles of impeachment, saying she is devaluing the impeachment process.Former House speaker Newt Gingrich (R-Ga.) sharply criticized Pelosi on Monday for holding on to the articles of impeachment, saying she is devaluing the impeachment process.
“It’s hard for me to explain what Speaker Pelosi thinks she’s doing,” said Gingrich, who presided over the impeachment of President Bill Clinton in 1998. “The more she plays games, the more she devalues the impeachment process and turns it from an historic event to just politics.”“It’s hard for me to explain what Speaker Pelosi thinks she’s doing,” said Gingrich, who presided over the impeachment of President Bill Clinton in 1998. “The more she plays games, the more she devalues the impeachment process and turns it from an historic event to just politics.”
“Every day that she drags this out, she makes it look more political, less serious,” Gingrich added. … I don’t understand her strategy … The longer this goes on, the stronger President Trump is getting.”“Every day that she drags this out, she makes it look more political, less serious,” Gingrich added. … I don’t understand her strategy … The longer this goes on, the stronger President Trump is getting.”
Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) pressed the case for a resolution he plans to introduce Monday that would change the Senate rules to allow it to dismiss the impeachment case against Trump if Pelosi does not send articles of impeachment to the chamber.Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) pressed the case for a resolution he plans to introduce Monday that would change the Senate rules to allow it to dismiss the impeachment case against Trump if Pelosi does not send articles of impeachment to the chamber.
“Nancy Pelosi is attempting to obstruct a Senate trial. That’s all there is to it,” Hawley, a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, said during an appearance on Fox News’s “Fox & Friends.” “It’s time for us to take action to say if you’re not going to prosecute your case, we’re throwing it out.”“Nancy Pelosi is attempting to obstruct a Senate trial. That’s all there is to it,” Hawley, a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, said during an appearance on Fox News’s “Fox & Friends.” “It’s time for us to take action to say if you’re not going to prosecute your case, we’re throwing it out.”
Hawley’s appearance Monday came a day after Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Lindsey O. Graham (R-S.C.) suggested that Republicans should try to change Senate rules to begin a trial in coming days without receiving the documents.Hawley’s appearance Monday came a day after Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Lindsey O. Graham (R-S.C.) suggested that Republicans should try to change Senate rules to begin a trial in coming days without receiving the documents.
Hawley said he considers Graham’s idea “another option.”Hawley said he considers Graham’s idea “another option.”
“The Senate has to act. We have to say, ‘Send up these articles, or we’re moving on without you,’ ” said Hawley, who accused Pelosi of “trying to be the leader of the Senate and control what we do.”“The Senate has to act. We have to say, ‘Send up these articles, or we’re moving on without you,’ ” said Hawley, who accused Pelosi of “trying to be the leader of the Senate and control what we do.”
In reality, both proposals face long odds. It would take 60 votes to pass a resolution on impeachment outside a trial and 67 votes to change the impeachment rules. That threshold would require Democratic support, since Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) has only 53 Republicans — and Democrats would be loath to undercut Pelosi.In reality, both proposals face long odds. It would take 60 votes to pass a resolution on impeachment outside a trial and 67 votes to change the impeachment rules. That threshold would require Democratic support, since Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) has only 53 Republicans — and Democrats would be loath to undercut Pelosi.
Rep. Mikie Sherrill (N.J.), a freshman Democrat elected in a district carried by Trump in 2016, said Monday that she is hopeful that Pelosi transmits the two articles of impeachment soon.Rep. Mikie Sherrill (N.J.), a freshman Democrat elected in a district carried by Trump in 2016, said Monday that she is hopeful that Pelosi transmits the two articles of impeachment soon.
“I would anticipate it wouldn’t be too long,” Sherrill said during an appearance on CNN.“I would anticipate it wouldn’t be too long,” Sherrill said during an appearance on CNN.
Asked if she would like Pelosi to transmit the articles soon, Sherill said: “I do. I think I want, I think my district wants, I think the nation wants some resolution to this.”Asked if she would like Pelosi to transmit the articles soon, Sherill said: “I do. I think I want, I think my district wants, I think the nation wants some resolution to this.”
Sherrill said the timing of hostilities with Iran should not affect the timing, arguing that an impeachment trial would not undermine Trump’s authority.Sherrill said the timing of hostilities with Iran should not affect the timing, arguing that an impeachment trial would not undermine Trump’s authority.
Trump, who returned to Washington on Sunday night after spending the holidays at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida, has no public appearances planned on Monday.Trump, who returned to Washington on Sunday night after spending the holidays at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida, has no public appearances planned on Monday.
He is scheduled to participate in a ceremony for newly appointed ambassadors to Washington late Monday morning. That event is closed to the press.He is scheduled to participate in a ceremony for newly appointed ambassadors to Washington late Monday morning. That event is closed to the press.
As they return to Washington this week after the holiday recess, congressional Republicans are preparing to step up pressure on Pelosi to transmit the articles of impeachment, a strategy they highlighted Sunday.As they return to Washington this week after the holiday recess, congressional Republicans are preparing to step up pressure on Pelosi to transmit the articles of impeachment, a strategy they highlighted Sunday.
“It’s now been almost three weeks, and she hasn’t taken any action,” Rep. John Ratcliffe (R-Tex.) told Fox News. “She’s let that progressive, socialist, Democratic mob walk her into a box canyon. She’s put a gun to her own head and she’s looking for Mitch McConnell to give her a way out, and he’s not going to do that.”“It’s now been almost three weeks, and she hasn’t taken any action,” Rep. John Ratcliffe (R-Tex.) told Fox News. “She’s let that progressive, socialist, Democratic mob walk her into a box canyon. She’s put a gun to her own head and she’s looking for Mitch McConnell to give her a way out, and he’s not going to do that.”
Multiple Democratic officials expect Pelosi to transmit the articles of impeachment to the Senate as soon as this week — though Pelosi’s office said Friday that no decision has been made and declined to detail her plans.Multiple Democratic officials expect Pelosi to transmit the articles of impeachment to the Senate as soon as this week — though Pelosi’s office said Friday that no decision has been made and declined to detail her plans.
In a letter to colleagues late Sunday, Pelosi said that the House would vote on a war powers resolution this week to limit Trump’s military actions against Iran, warning that his order last week for a lethal strike against a top Iranian commander risked a serious escalation of tensions in the Middle East. She made no mention of plans related to impeachment.In a letter to colleagues late Sunday, Pelosi said that the House would vote on a war powers resolution this week to limit Trump’s military actions against Iran, warning that his order last week for a lethal strike against a top Iranian commander risked a serious escalation of tensions in the Middle East. She made no mention of plans related to impeachment.
Senior Democrats, including two who appeared on the Sunday shows before lawmakers returned from the two-week congressional recess, have defended the delay in transmitting the articles.Senior Democrats, including two who appeared on the Sunday shows before lawmakers returned from the two-week congressional recess, have defended the delay in transmitting the articles.
House Intelligence Committee Chairman Adam B. Schiff (D-Calif.) said on CNN’s “State of the Union” that the maneuver has been successful in highlighting the positions of Senate Republicans on the trial — and holding them accountable.House Intelligence Committee Chairman Adam B. Schiff (D-Calif.) said on CNN’s “State of the Union” that the maneuver has been successful in highlighting the positions of Senate Republicans on the trial — and holding them accountable.
“One success this has already had is flushing out McConnell, showing he is working in cahoots with the president — that he has made himself an active participant in the president’s coverup,” said Schiff, who is expected to be named as an impeachment manager. “So the American people needed to see that, and now they do.”“One success this has already had is flushing out McConnell, showing he is working in cahoots with the president — that he has made himself an active participant in the president’s coverup,” said Schiff, who is expected to be named as an impeachment manager. “So the American people needed to see that, and now they do.”
Likewise, Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer (D-N.Y.) — said on ABC’s “This Week” that Pelosi “has done a very good job here,” predicting that if she’d sent the articles in December, “McConnell could have well just voted for dismissal the day before or after Christmas.”Likewise, Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer (D-N.Y.) — said on ABC’s “This Week” that Pelosi “has done a very good job here,” predicting that if she’d sent the articles in December, “McConnell could have well just voted for dismissal the day before or after Christmas.”