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Impeachment trial live updates: Trump defense team presents third day of arguments as debate rages over calling witnesses Impeachment trial live updates: Trump defense team presents third day of arguments as debate rages over calling witnesses
(32 minutes later)
President Trump’s legal team is offering its third and final day of opening arguments in his Senate impeachment trial on charges of abuse of power and obstruction of Congress, as debate rages outside the chamber over whether to call witnesses before its conclusion.President Trump’s legal team is offering its third and final day of opening arguments in his Senate impeachment trial on charges of abuse of power and obstruction of Congress, as debate rages outside the chamber over whether to call witnesses before its conclusion.
Pressure has ramped up to include witnesses after reports that former national security adviser John Bolton says in a book manuscript that Trump directly tied the holdup of nearly $400 million in military assistance to Ukraine to investigations of former vice president Joe Biden and his son Hunter Biden.Pressure has ramped up to include witnesses after reports that former national security adviser John Bolton says in a book manuscript that Trump directly tied the holdup of nearly $400 million in military assistance to Ukraine to investigations of former vice president Joe Biden and his son Hunter Biden.
The crux of the case for Trump’s impeachment is the allegation that he withheld military aid and a White House meeting to pressure Ukraine to investigate the Bidens. Hunter Biden served on the board of Burisma, a Ukrainian energy company, while his father was vice president. Trump’s attorneys have argued that he was justified in seeking investigations because of a history of corruption involving the company.The crux of the case for Trump’s impeachment is the allegation that he withheld military aid and a White House meeting to pressure Ukraine to investigate the Bidens. Hunter Biden served on the board of Burisma, a Ukrainian energy company, while his father was vice president. Trump’s attorneys have argued that he was justified in seeking investigations because of a history of corruption involving the company.
●Leaked Bolton book threatens to upend Senate impeachment trial.●Leaked Bolton book threatens to upend Senate impeachment trial.
●White House works to contain damage from allegations in forthcoming Bolton book.●White House works to contain damage from allegations in forthcoming Bolton book.
●Bolton book roils Washington as onetime allies turn on Trump’s former national security adviser.●Bolton book roils Washington as onetime allies turn on Trump’s former national security adviser.
The Senate impeachment trial process | The impeachment managers |Which senators support removing Trump | Trump’s legal team brief | House Democrats’ responseThe Senate impeachment trial process | The impeachment managers |Which senators support removing Trump | Trump’s legal team brief | House Democrats’ response
Trump lawyer Jay Sekulow wrapped up his presentation by arguing that Democrats were trying to remove Trump from office for policy differences.
“The bar for impeachment cannot be set this low,” he said. “Danger, danger, danger. These articles must be rejected. The Constitution requires it. Justice demands it.”
Earlier, Sekulow argued that the abuse of power charge “fails constitutionally.”
“The president has constitutional authority to engage, conduct foreign policy and foreign affairs,” he said. “It is our position, legally, the president at all times acted with perfect legal authority, inquired of matters in our national interest.”
Trump attorney Jay Sekulow argued that the revelations from Bolton’s manuscript would not be admissible during a typical trial, dismissing their importance to the impeachment proceedings.
Sekulow read several statements denying Bolton’s allegation that Trump directly tied the withholding of military aid to Ukraine to investigations into his political rivals. The statements came from Trump, the Department of Justice and the chief of staff to Vice President Pence.
Sekulow then sought to emphasize what remains unknown about Bolton’s still-unpublished book, calling it “an unpublished manuscript that maybe some reporters have an idea of maybe what it says.”
Sekulow continued: “I mean, that’s what the evidence — if you want to call that evidence — I don’t know what you’d call that — I’d call it inadmissible — but that’s what it is.”
A day after lifting eyebrows by launching a Twitter attack on GOP colleague Mitt Romney, Sen. Kelly Loeffler (Ga.) turned her fire outside the tent Tuesday — attacking Democrats and praising Trump.
On Twitter, she summarized the impeachment articles in this way: “Article 1 -The House doesn’t like @POTUS. Article 2 - The Democrats don’t think they can beat @POTUS in November.” She also lauded Trump’s leadership: “Nobody is working harder for the American people.”
The tweets came a day after news broke that a key rival, Rep. Douglas A. Collins (R-Ga.), was planning to challenge her in a special election later this year for the seat Gov. Brian Kemp (R) appointed her to this month.
As she arrived to the GOP luncheon Tuesday, Loeffler looked down and declined to address why she attacked Romney, a onetime friend to whose presidential campaign she supported to the tune of $750,000.
After three questions and three seconds of silence, she ducked into the private luncheon.
Despite the internal feud, key Senate Republicans stood behind Loeffler in the emerging primary race.
“We will be supportive of Kelly Loeffler,” said Sen. Todd C. Young (R-Ind.), chairman of the National Republican Senatorial Committee. “She’s already proven herself to be a strong conservative who will represent the state of Georgia well. And we’re fully committed to her success.”
As he began his presentation, Trump personal lawyer Jay Sekulow sought to remind the Senate of the grave stakes.As he began his presentation, Trump personal lawyer Jay Sekulow sought to remind the Senate of the grave stakes.
This is “the trial of the leader of the free world and the duly elected president of the United States,” he said. “It is not a game of leaks and unsourced manuscripts. That’s politics, unfortunately, and (founder Alexander) Hamilton put impeachment in the hands of this body, the Senate,precisely and specifically to be above that fray. This is the greatest deliberative body on Earth.” This is “the trial of the leader of the free world and the duly elected president of the United States,” he said. “It is not a game of leaks and unsourced manuscripts. That’s politics, unfortunately, and [founder Alexander] Hamilton put impeachment in the hands of this body, the Senate, precisely and specifically to be above that fray. This is the greatest deliberative body on Earth.”
Sekulow went on the argue that House managers were seeking to lower the bar for a legitimate impeachment. Sekulow went on to argue that House managers were seeking to lower the bar for a legitimate impeachment.
“In our presentation so far, you’ve now heard from legal scholars, from a variety of schools of thought, from a variety of political backgrounds, but they do have a common theme with a dire warning: Danger, danger, danger,” Sekulow said. “To lower the bar of impeachment based on these articles of impeachment, would impact the functioning of our constitutional republic and the framework of that constitution for generations.” “In our presentation so far, you’ve now heard from legal scholars, from a variety of schools of thought, from a variety of political backgrounds, but they do have a common theme with a dire warning: Danger, danger, danger,” Sekulow said. “To lower the bar of impeachment based on these articles of impeachment would impact the functioning of our constitutional republic and the framework of that Constitution for generations.”
Patrick F. Philbin, a deputy White House counsel, began the defense team’s presentation by pushing back on several points made last week by House managers, including their definition of “abuse of power” — one of the two articles of impeachment — and their allegation of a White House coverup of Trump’s July call with the Ukrainian president.Patrick F. Philbin, a deputy White House counsel, began the defense team’s presentation by pushing back on several points made last week by House managers, including their definition of “abuse of power” — one of the two articles of impeachment — and their allegation of a White House coverup of Trump’s July call with the Ukrainian president.
During their opening arguments, the House managers said moving the rough transcript of the call to a special server was evidence of a coverup. During their opening arguments, the House managers said moving the rough transcript of the call to a special computer server was evidence of a coverup.
“Everyone who knew something about it and who testified agreed there was no malicious intent,” Philbin said. “The call was still available to everyone who needed it as part of their job. And it certainly wasn’t covered up or deep-sixed in some way. The president declassified it and made it public. So why we’re even here talking about these accusations about a coverup when it’s a transcript that was preserved and made public is somewhat absurd.”“Everyone who knew something about it and who testified agreed there was no malicious intent,” Philbin said. “The call was still available to everyone who needed it as part of their job. And it certainly wasn’t covered up or deep-sixed in some way. The president declassified it and made it public. So why we’re even here talking about these accusations about a coverup when it’s a transcript that was preserved and made public is somewhat absurd.”
The defense team indicated that they would use far less than the 15 hours they have remaining for their opening arguments. Philbin’s presentation was expected to be followed by two more, with the session wrapping up before dinnertime, the defense team said.The defense team indicated that they would use far less than the 15 hours they have remaining for their opening arguments. Philbin’s presentation was expected to be followed by two more, with the session wrapping up before dinnertime, the defense team said.
Harvard Law School emeritus professor Alan Dershowitz, who argued on Trump’s behalf in the Senate impeachment trial Monday, was a guest at the White House on Tuesday, attending Trump’s announcement of a Middle East peace plan.Harvard Law School emeritus professor Alan Dershowitz, who argued on Trump’s behalf in the Senate impeachment trial Monday, was a guest at the White House on Tuesday, attending Trump’s announcement of a Middle East peace plan.
Dershowitz was spotted in the East Room as Trump outlined his long-awaited plan alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.Dershowitz was spotted in the East Room as Trump outlined his long-awaited plan alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Attorneys for House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) are using the words of the president’s legal team, including attorney Kenneth Starr, to try to illustrate how Trump’s Senate defense is undercutting the administration’s position in a pending lawsuit over access to secret grand jury materials Democrats are seeking.Attorneys for House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) are using the words of the president’s legal team, including attorney Kenneth Starr, to try to illustrate how Trump’s Senate defense is undercutting the administration’s position in a pending lawsuit over access to secret grand jury materials Democrats are seeking.
During the defense presentation Monday, Starr, a former independent counsel, reminded senators that they do not sit as jurors.During the defense presentation Monday, Starr, a former independent counsel, reminded senators that they do not sit as jurors.
“Rather, the Senate is a court. In fact, history teaches us that for literally decades, this body was referred to in this context as the high court of impeachment,” said Starr, whose investigation formed the basis of the impeachment trial of President Bill Clinton.“Rather, the Senate is a court. In fact, history teaches us that for literally decades, this body was referred to in this context as the high court of impeachment,” said Starr, whose investigation formed the basis of the impeachment trial of President Bill Clinton.
“So we are not a legislative chamber during these proceedings. We are in a tribunal. We are in court.”“So we are not a legislative chamber during these proceedings. We are in a tribunal. We are in court.”
Trump administration lawyers have been arguing the opposite in a pending lawsuit, House lawyers told the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit in a new filing Tuesday.Trump administration lawyers have been arguing the opposite in a pending lawsuit, House lawyers told the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit in a new filing Tuesday.
The Justice Department has argued that a Senate impeachment trial is not a “judicial proceeding” and therefore not exempt from secrecy rules that shield grand jury materials from disclosure.The Justice Department has argued that a Senate impeachment trial is not a “judicial proceeding” and therefore not exempt from secrecy rules that shield grand jury materials from disclosure.
“That argument has now been contradicted by the President’s counsel’s statements to the Senate, which confirm that the Senate sits as a “court” rather than a “legislative chamber” during an impeachment trial,” according to the filing from House general counsel Douglas N. Letter.“That argument has now been contradicted by the President’s counsel’s statements to the Senate, which confirm that the Senate sits as a “court” rather than a “legislative chamber” during an impeachment trial,” according to the filing from House general counsel Douglas N. Letter.
House Democrats have said they need the secret material from the Russia investigation of former special counsel Robert S. Mueller III to determine whether the president lied in his written answers to Mueller’s investigation and to try to establish a pattern of alleged obstruction by the president as part of the impeachment proceedings.House Democrats have said they need the secret material from the Russia investigation of former special counsel Robert S. Mueller III to determine whether the president lied in his written answers to Mueller’s investigation and to try to establish a pattern of alleged obstruction by the president as part of the impeachment proceedings.
If there’s one Republican on Capitol Hill who feels little need to bow to GOP foreign policy veteran Bolton, it’s Sen. Rand Paul (Ky.), whose isolationist foreign policy outlook directly clashes with Bolton’s muscular nationalism.If there’s one Republican on Capitol Hill who feels little need to bow to GOP foreign policy veteran Bolton, it’s Sen. Rand Paul (Ky.), whose isolationist foreign policy outlook directly clashes with Bolton’s muscular nationalism.
Arriving at the Capitol on Tuesday, Paul blasted Bolton’s credibility and suggested that the Senate doesn’t need to hear his testimony.Arriving at the Capitol on Tuesday, Paul blasted Bolton’s credibility and suggested that the Senate doesn’t need to hear his testimony.
“I think, at this point, if you want to hear from John Bolton, you have to ask yourself: Is he a disinterested party? Is he a neutral party? Or is he someone who’s very unhappy — disgruntled, fired employee who now has a motive, a multimillion-dollar motive, to inflame the situation?”“I think, at this point, if you want to hear from John Bolton, you have to ask yourself: Is he a disinterested party? Is he a neutral party? Or is he someone who’s very unhappy — disgruntled, fired employee who now has a motive, a multimillion-dollar motive, to inflame the situation?”
Paul continued: “His history of his career was, what? Decades and decades of defending executive power and executive privilege. Now he’s willing to reveal every conversation that he had about national security with the president for money. So the Democrats have spent a lot of time imagining what the president’s motives are. Someone ought to spend some time imagining what John Bolton’s motives are, other than making millions of dollars to trash the president.”Paul continued: “His history of his career was, what? Decades and decades of defending executive power and executive privilege. Now he’s willing to reveal every conversation that he had about national security with the president for money. So the Democrats have spent a lot of time imagining what the president’s motives are. Someone ought to spend some time imagining what John Bolton’s motives are, other than making millions of dollars to trash the president.”
Paul said he was all but ready to move to a verdict once the White House closes its defense Tuesday and senators ask 16 hours of questions: “I think we’ve heard a lot of witnesses and we’ve heard a lot of testimony. But I think we’re at the point where we’ve heard enough, frankly.”Paul said he was all but ready to move to a verdict once the White House closes its defense Tuesday and senators ask 16 hours of questions: “I think we’ve heard a lot of witnesses and we’ve heard a lot of testimony. But I think we’re at the point where we’ve heard enough, frankly.”
He echoed other GOP senators Tuesday in praising White House arguments against impeachment on constitutional grounds, suggesting that removal is not warranted even if Democrats prove their core abuse of power allegation.He echoed other GOP senators Tuesday in praising White House arguments against impeachment on constitutional grounds, suggesting that removal is not warranted even if Democrats prove their core abuse of power allegation.
“I think Professor Dershowitz was very persuasive,” he said of Alan Dershowitz, the Harvard Law professor who directly argued that Bolton’s quid-pro-quo allegation is not impeachable.“I think Professor Dershowitz was very persuasive,” he said of Alan Dershowitz, the Harvard Law professor who directly argued that Bolton’s quid-pro-quo allegation is not impeachable.
As the Senate prepared to reconvene for Trump’s impeachment trial, he announced an Israeli-Palestinian peace plan at the White House.As the Senate prepared to reconvene for Trump’s impeachment trial, he announced an Israeli-Palestinian peace plan at the White House.
Trump said the package offers Israel a guarantee of security while giving Palestinians a path to an autonomous state. But few think that will become reality.Trump said the package offers Israel a guarantee of security while giving Palestinians a path to an autonomous state. But few think that will become reality.
“It’s been a long and very arduous process to arrive at this moment,” Trump said, standing alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.“It’s been a long and very arduous process to arrive at this moment,” Trump said, standing alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
The plan would be a basis for negotiations if Israel and the Palestinians agreed, but that looks far from likely. Palestinian leaders rejected the plan before its release.The plan would be a basis for negotiations if Israel and the Palestinians agreed, but that looks far from likely. Palestinian leaders rejected the plan before its release.
Read more here.Read more here.
John Kelly, who served as Trump’s chief of staff from July 2017 through January 2019, suggested Monday that he’d take Bolton’s word over that of his former boss.John Kelly, who served as Trump’s chief of staff from July 2017 through January 2019, suggested Monday that he’d take Bolton’s word over that of his former boss.
Kelly was asked about Bolton’s claim in a yet-to-be-released book that Trump had told him he wanted to make aid to Ukraine contingent on an investigation of the Bidens.Kelly was asked about Bolton’s claim in a yet-to-be-released book that Trump had told him he wanted to make aid to Ukraine contingent on an investigation of the Bidens.
“If John Bolton says that in a book, I believe John Bolton,” Kelly said, according to the Sarasota Herald-Tribune.“If John Bolton says that in a book, I believe John Bolton,” Kelly said, according to the Sarasota Herald-Tribune.
Trump has vigorously denied Bolton’s account.Trump has vigorously denied Bolton’s account.
Kelly, speaking in Sarasota as part of a lecture series, also said he supports calling witnesses to testify in the Senate trial, which Trump and most Republicans have rejected.Kelly, speaking in Sarasota as part of a lecture series, also said he supports calling witnesses to testify in the Senate trial, which Trump and most Republicans have rejected.
“I think some of the conversations seem to me to be very inappropriate but I wasn’t there,” Kelly said. “But there are people that were there that ought to be heard from.”“I think some of the conversations seem to me to be very inappropriate but I wasn’t there,” Kelly said. “But there are people that were there that ought to be heard from.”
Sen. Chris Van Hollen offered a rejoinder to Trump after a tweet in which the president complained that Fox News had given the Maryland Democrat airtime to talk about the impeachment trial.Sen. Chris Van Hollen offered a rejoinder to Trump after a tweet in which the president complained that Fox News had given the Maryland Democrat airtime to talk about the impeachment trial.
“Glad you tuned in, Mr. President,” Van Hollen said in a tweet of his own. “Now that I have your attention, how about coming down to the Senate to share your side of the story under penalty of perjury?”“Glad you tuned in, Mr. President,” Van Hollen said in a tweet of his own. “Now that I have your attention, how about coming down to the Senate to share your side of the story under penalty of perjury?”
Rep. Adam B. Schiff (D-Calif.), the House’s lead impeachment manager, said Tuesday that the Senate must secure testimony from Bolton and should not look to the House to issue its own subpoena for the former national security adviser.Rep. Adam B. Schiff (D-Calif.), the House’s lead impeachment manager, said Tuesday that the Senate must secure testimony from Bolton and should not look to the House to issue its own subpoena for the former national security adviser.
Amid Senate Republicans’ talk about witnesses — including the discussion of proposals that could include calling Schiff to testify — Schiff dismissed the suggestion and said Democrats should resist any attempt to make the trial a “circus.”Amid Senate Republicans’ talk about witnesses — including the discussion of proposals that could include calling Schiff to testify — Schiff dismissed the suggestion and said Democrats should resist any attempt to make the trial a “circus.”
In an interview with The Washington Post, Schiff said that pressure is mounting on Republicans rather than Democrats, following the uproar caused by leaked details from Bolton’s upcoming book about his time in the White House.In an interview with The Washington Post, Schiff said that pressure is mounting on Republicans rather than Democrats, following the uproar caused by leaked details from Bolton’s upcoming book about his time in the White House.
At this juncture, Schiff said, if Bolton is not called by the GOP-controlled Senate, “the inference is that the president is guilty, and his lawyers are basically screaming to the rafters, ‘Our client is guilty, our client is guilty. We just don’t want the public to see any more evidence of it.’ ”At this juncture, Schiff said, if Bolton is not called by the GOP-controlled Senate, “the inference is that the president is guilty, and his lawyers are basically screaming to the rafters, ‘Our client is guilty, our client is guilty. We just don’t want the public to see any more evidence of it.’ ”
In the coming days, Schiff said Democrats should continue to push for Bolton to testify — and he said he is open to discussion about how that agreement is done.In the coming days, Schiff said Democrats should continue to push for Bolton to testify — and he said he is open to discussion about how that agreement is done.
While he would prefer to see Bolton testify publicly, Schiff said his priority is making sure that Bolton’s testimony is included as evidence in the trial, be it public testimony or a closed deposition.While he would prefer to see Bolton testify publicly, Schiff said his priority is making sure that Bolton’s testimony is included as evidence in the trial, be it public testimony or a closed deposition.
In an organizing resolution released last week and written by Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) and his team, the rules would allow either the president’s defense team or the House impeachment managers to subpoena witnesses if the Senate agrees, but any witnesses would first have to be deposed.In an organizing resolution released last week and written by Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) and his team, the rules would allow either the president’s defense team or the House impeachment managers to subpoena witnesses if the Senate agrees, but any witnesses would first have to be deposed.
When asked whether he has documents ready to subpoena Bolton to testify before the House, should Senate witness negotiations collapse later this week, Schiff declined to comment.When asked whether he has documents ready to subpoena Bolton to testify before the House, should Senate witness negotiations collapse later this week, Schiff declined to comment.
“I really don’t want to comment on any fallback plans,” he said.“I really don’t want to comment on any fallback plans,” he said.
Schiff also sharply dismissed the suggestion, made by Trump’s allies, that he could serve as a witness in the impeachment trial, particularly if Republicans push for a “one-for-one” trade with Democrats where each party called a single witness.Schiff also sharply dismissed the suggestion, made by Trump’s allies, that he could serve as a witness in the impeachment trial, particularly if Republicans push for a “one-for-one” trade with Democrats where each party called a single witness.
“I just can’t endorse the idea that in order to get a witness who’s clearly relevant, the Senate is going to go along with an idea to call someone who is plainly not,” Schiff said, referring to Republican calls for him or Hunter Biden to testify in the trial. “What they’re looking for is a pound of flesh.”“I just can’t endorse the idea that in order to get a witness who’s clearly relevant, the Senate is going to go along with an idea to call someone who is plainly not,” Schiff said, referring to Republican calls for him or Hunter Biden to testify in the trial. “What they’re looking for is a pound of flesh.”
At a news conference, Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer (D-N.Y.) continued his demands for new witnesses, accusing GOP senators of not wanting to hear evidence Bolton has against the president.At a news conference, Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer (D-N.Y.) continued his demands for new witnesses, accusing GOP senators of not wanting to hear evidence Bolton has against the president.
“In a few weeks or a few months, do my Republican colleagues want to pick up the paper and read that one of the witnesses they blocked had crucial information about the president’s misconduct?” Schumer asked.“In a few weeks or a few months, do my Republican colleagues want to pick up the paper and read that one of the witnesses they blocked had crucial information about the president’s misconduct?” Schumer asked.
He accused Republicans of focusing on Hunter Biden’s testimony to distract from the “facts and the law against the president.” He said Trump’s defense team misled in its presentation by claiming that there are no eyewitnesses to Trump’s behavior.He accused Republicans of focusing on Hunter Biden’s testimony to distract from the “facts and the law against the president.” He said Trump’s defense team misled in its presentation by claiming that there are no eyewitnesses to Trump’s behavior.
“He has the nerve, the gall, the belief that he can deceive … when it has been revealed that Hunter Biden does have the eyewitness testimony and is willing to testify,” Schumer said loudly.“He has the nerve, the gall, the belief that he can deceive … when it has been revealed that Hunter Biden does have the eyewitness testimony and is willing to testify,” Schumer said loudly.
The reporters in the room winced and Sen. Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.) whispered in his ear.The reporters in the room winced and Sen. Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.) whispered in his ear.
“What did I say?” Schumer said, turning to Sen. Jack Reed (D-R.I.).“What did I say?” Schumer said, turning to Sen. Jack Reed (D-R.I.).
Then Schumer, realizing his mistake, did the entire windup again, this time saying Bolton instead of Biden.Then Schumer, realizing his mistake, did the entire windup again, this time saying Bolton instead of Biden.
Sen. Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.) voiced reservations Tuesday about having senators read Bolton’s book as part of the trial.Sen. Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.) voiced reservations Tuesday about having senators read Bolton’s book as part of the trial.
“I want to get to a vote on acquittal, quite honestly,” the senator told reporters. “The country doesn’t need to be dragged through a longer process that’s going to have the same outcome. It just further divides us.”“I want to get to a vote on acquittal, quite honestly,” the senator told reporters. “The country doesn’t need to be dragged through a longer process that’s going to have the same outcome. It just further divides us.”
Cramer also expressed concern that the book would not be the end of Democrats’ pursuit.Cramer also expressed concern that the book would not be the end of Democrats’ pursuit.
“That’s my problem,” he said. “When you open the door a little, you will never satiate the House managers. … It’s as if they want to go fishing in the United States Senate, and they’re going to go fishing until they catch one.”“That’s my problem,” he said. “When you open the door a little, you will never satiate the House managers. … It’s as if they want to go fishing in the United States Senate, and they’re going to go fishing until they catch one.”
Trump attorney Alan Dershowitz’s presentation Monday night may have perplexed Democrats, but it gave some Republicans the framework they were searching for to dismiss Bolton as a potential witness, even if his account of Trump’s actions is 100 percent true.Trump attorney Alan Dershowitz’s presentation Monday night may have perplexed Democrats, but it gave some Republicans the framework they were searching for to dismiss Bolton as a potential witness, even if his account of Trump’s actions is 100 percent true.
“Let’s say it’s true, okay? Dershowitz last night explained that if you’re looking at it from a constitutional point of view, that that is not something that is impeachable,” Sen. Mike Braun (R-Ind.) told reporters Tuesday.“Let’s say it’s true, okay? Dershowitz last night explained that if you’re looking at it from a constitutional point of view, that that is not something that is impeachable,” Sen. Mike Braun (R-Ind.) told reporters Tuesday.
Dershowitz said during his defense of Trump that “nothing in the Bolton revelations, even if true, would rise to the level of an abuse of power or an impeachable offense.”Dershowitz said during his defense of Trump that “nothing in the Bolton revelations, even if true, would rise to the level of an abuse of power or an impeachable offense.”
That argument “probably gave a lot more peace of mind to people that were wanting to see how to sort through it,” Braun said, noting that he approached Dershowitz afterward to ask him again: “If Bolton’s revelation in its full form was true, is that impeachable in your opinion? … And he said, ‘No, because it imputes motives.’ ”That argument “probably gave a lot more peace of mind to people that were wanting to see how to sort through it,” Braun said, noting that he approached Dershowitz afterward to ask him again: “If Bolton’s revelation in its full form was true, is that impeachable in your opinion? … And he said, ‘No, because it imputes motives.’ ”
Braun said he would probably submit a question for the upcoming question-and-answer portion of the trial “just to verify and get another opinion on what Dershowitz talked about.”Braun said he would probably submit a question for the upcoming question-and-answer portion of the trial “just to verify and get another opinion on what Dershowitz talked about.”
Elsewhere around the Capitol, other Republican senators — including Sens. John Cornyn (Tex.), Thom Tillis (N.C.), Mike Crapo (Idaho) and Mike Rounds (S.D.) — expressed similar opinions about Dershowitz’s rationale.Elsewhere around the Capitol, other Republican senators — including Sens. John Cornyn (Tex.), Thom Tillis (N.C.), Mike Crapo (Idaho) and Mike Rounds (S.D.) — expressed similar opinions about Dershowitz’s rationale.
Senate Minority Whip Richard J. Durbin (D-Ill.) pushed back Tuesday on the prospect of getting to read Bolton’s book but not having him appear at the trial.Senate Minority Whip Richard J. Durbin (D-Ill.) pushed back Tuesday on the prospect of getting to read Bolton’s book but not having him appear at the trial.
“Let’s see the book. But it’s not sufficient for what we need,” Durbin told reporters. “We need testimony. Why are the Republicans so afraid of witnesses?”“Let’s see the book. But it’s not sufficient for what we need,” Durbin told reporters. “We need testimony. Why are the Republicans so afraid of witnesses?”
Durbin argued that having a witness testify in person would allow cross-examination.Durbin argued that having a witness testify in person would allow cross-examination.
“For goodness’ sake, we know what-cross examination does,” he said. “It tests a person’s veracity and their memory. And you can’t do that reading a book. … Put him under oath, ask questions on both sides, and let the American people decide.”“For goodness’ sake, we know what-cross examination does,” he said. “It tests a person’s veracity and their memory. And you can’t do that reading a book. … Put him under oath, ask questions on both sides, and let the American people decide.”
A senior Democratic aide close to the impeachment managers said Tuesday that Democrats are interested in more documents than simply Bolton’s forthcoming book manuscript — noting that the former national security adviser was known as a “prodigious” note-taker and may have taken some of his notes with him when he left the White House last year.A senior Democratic aide close to the impeachment managers said Tuesday that Democrats are interested in more documents than simply Bolton’s forthcoming book manuscript — noting that the former national security adviser was known as a “prodigious” note-taker and may have taken some of his notes with him when he left the White House last year.
The comment suggests that Democrats will not be willing to sign on to a notion taking root among some Republicans to secure Bolton’s manuscript for review and move to end the trial. The aide was among several who addressed reporters Tuesday on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak publicly.The comment suggests that Democrats will not be willing to sign on to a notion taking root among some Republicans to secure Bolton’s manuscript for review and move to end the trial. The aide was among several who addressed reporters Tuesday on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak publicly.
A second aide joined multiple Democratic senators in rejecting another idea floated by the GOP: a “one-for-one” witness trade where Bolton would be called alongside Hunter Biden — whose work in Ukraine was highlighted during Trump’s defense presentation Monday.A second aide joined multiple Democratic senators in rejecting another idea floated by the GOP: a “one-for-one” witness trade where Bolton would be called alongside Hunter Biden — whose work in Ukraine was highlighted during Trump’s defense presentation Monday.
“Trials are about witnesses, but they’re about material witnesses who have relevant information,” the second aide said. “So from our perspective, we’re focused on Bolton for that reason. … We do not believe that there is a place here for the kind of irrelevant smear campaign that we saw yesterday. So we’re just going to go straight ahead on the material and relevant witnesses, and we will make that case to the Senate.”“Trials are about witnesses, but they’re about material witnesses who have relevant information,” the second aide said. “So from our perspective, we’re focused on Bolton for that reason. … We do not believe that there is a place here for the kind of irrelevant smear campaign that we saw yesterday. So we’re just going to go straight ahead on the material and relevant witnesses, and we will make that case to the Senate.”
Trump lashed out at Fox News on Tuesday shortly after Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) appeared on air to talk about the impeachment trial and make the case for calling witnesses.Trump lashed out at Fox News on Tuesday shortly after Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) appeared on air to talk about the impeachment trial and make the case for calling witnesses.
“Really pathetic how @FoxNews is trying to be so politically correct by loading the airwaves with Democrats like Chris Van Hollen, the no name Senator from Maryland,” Trump tweeted. “He has been on forever playing up the Impeachment Hoax.”“Really pathetic how @FoxNews is trying to be so politically correct by loading the airwaves with Democrats like Chris Van Hollen, the no name Senator from Maryland,” Trump tweeted. “He has been on forever playing up the Impeachment Hoax.”
Trump also noted that the Democratic National Committee had declined to allow Fox News to sponsor any of its presidential debates.Trump also noted that the Democratic National Committee had declined to allow Fox News to sponsor any of its presidential debates.
“So, what the hell has happened to @FoxNews,” Trump continued in a tweet in which he derided two anchors, Chris Wallace and Shepard Smith, who recently departed. “Chris Wallace and others should be on Fake News CNN or MSDNC. How’s Shep Smith doing? Watch, this will be the beginning of the end for Fox, just like the other two which are dying in the ratings. Social Media is great!”“So, what the hell has happened to @FoxNews,” Trump continued in a tweet in which he derided two anchors, Chris Wallace and Shepard Smith, who recently departed. “Chris Wallace and others should be on Fake News CNN or MSDNC. How’s Shep Smith doing? Watch, this will be the beginning of the end for Fox, just like the other two which are dying in the ratings. Social Media is great!”
Trump’s reference to MSDNC was apparently meant to suggest that MSNBC is controlled by the DNC.Trump’s reference to MSDNC was apparently meant to suggest that MSNBC is controlled by the DNC.
Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Lindsey O. Graham (R-S.C.) said Tuesday that he supports a proposal by Sen. James Lankford (R-Okla.) to allow senators to read Bolton’s manuscript in a classified setting if need be.Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Lindsey O. Graham (R-S.C.) said Tuesday that he supports a proposal by Sen. James Lankford (R-Okla.) to allow senators to read Bolton’s manuscript in a classified setting if need be.
Bolton’s manuscript is under a standard review by the National Security Council before publication.Bolton’s manuscript is under a standard review by the National Security Council before publication.
“I totally support @SenatorLankford’s proposal that the Bolton manuscript be made available to the Senate, if possible, in a classified setting where each Senator has the opportunity to review the manuscript and make their own determination,” Graham tweeted.“I totally support @SenatorLankford’s proposal that the Bolton manuscript be made available to the Senate, if possible, in a classified setting where each Senator has the opportunity to review the manuscript and make their own determination,” Graham tweeted.
Graham said Monday that senators should have an opportunity to read the manuscript before deciding whether to call Bolton as a witness.Graham said Monday that senators should have an opportunity to read the manuscript before deciding whether to call Bolton as a witness.
“Let’s see what’s in the manuscript,” Graham told reporters. “Let’s see if it’s relevant, and if it is, then I’ll make a decision about Bolton.”“Let’s see what’s in the manuscript,” Graham told reporters. “Let’s see if it’s relevant, and if it is, then I’ll make a decision about Bolton.”
Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) said Tuesday that he is considering reintroducing a motion that would allow Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr., who is presiding over the Senate trial, to decide which witnesses should be heard.Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) said Tuesday that he is considering reintroducing a motion that would allow Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr., who is presiding over the Senate trial, to decide which witnesses should be heard.
During an appearance on Fox News, Van Hollen said that since the Bolton manuscript came to light, “all the momentum here now is in favor of calling relevant fact witnesses.”During an appearance on Fox News, Van Hollen said that since the Bolton manuscript came to light, “all the momentum here now is in favor of calling relevant fact witnesses.”
During debate last week over trial rules, Van Hollen introduced an amendment that would have made Roberts the arbiter on witnesses. The measure failed along party lines.During debate last week over trial rules, Van Hollen introduced an amendment that would have made Roberts the arbiter on witnesses. The measure failed along party lines.
During the interview, Van Hollen also pushed back on the notion advanced by some Republicans that allowing witnesses could produce long delays in the trial, given that Trump is likely to exert executive privilege and that the issue will have to be litigated.During the interview, Van Hollen also pushed back on the notion advanced by some Republicans that allowing witnesses could produce long delays in the trial, given that Trump is likely to exert executive privilege and that the issue will have to be litigated.
Van Hollen said Roberts could also be relied upon to decide privilege issues.Van Hollen said Roberts could also be relied upon to decide privilege issues.
“He can quickly adjudicate questions of executive privilege,” Van Hollen said.“He can quickly adjudicate questions of executive privilege,” Van Hollen said.
Rep. Andy Biggs (R-Ariz.), a staunch ally of Trump, argued Tuesday that testimony from Bolton would be largely irrelevant to a Senate trial.Rep. Andy Biggs (R-Ariz.), a staunch ally of Trump, argued Tuesday that testimony from Bolton would be largely irrelevant to a Senate trial.
“I don’t know what he’s going to say, and frankly, in many instances, it’s irrelevant what he’s going to say. The case has been presented,” he said during an interview on Fox News. “This doesn’t change anything.”“I don’t know what he’s going to say, and frankly, in many instances, it’s irrelevant what he’s going to say. The case has been presented,” he said during an interview on Fox News. “This doesn’t change anything.”
Biggs said that if the door is opened to witnesses, Republicans should not only call Hunter Biden but several others, including the whistleblower whose complaint sparked the House impeachment inquiry, and someone familiar with the thinking of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.Biggs said that if the door is opened to witnesses, Republicans should not only call Hunter Biden but several others, including the whistleblower whose complaint sparked the House impeachment inquiry, and someone familiar with the thinking of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
House Intelligence Committee Chairman Adam B. Schiff (D-Calif.), the lead impeachment manager, accused Republicans of being “fairly shortsighted” in their loyalty to Trump during the impeachment trial.House Intelligence Committee Chairman Adam B. Schiff (D-Calif.), the lead impeachment manager, accused Republicans of being “fairly shortsighted” in their loyalty to Trump during the impeachment trial.
“It doesn’t require a great prescience to know history is not going to be kind to this president,” Schiff said during an appearance on MSNBC in which he questioned why GOP lawmakers would want to “seamlessly tie themselves to this president.”“It doesn’t require a great prescience to know history is not going to be kind to this president,” Schiff said during an appearance on MSNBC in which he questioned why GOP lawmakers would want to “seamlessly tie themselves to this president.”
Schiff also made a fresh appeal for including witnesses in the trial.Schiff also made a fresh appeal for including witnesses in the trial.
“If the senators don’t call witnesses, this is not a fair trial,” Schiff said. “It’s not a trial at all.”“If the senators don’t call witnesses, this is not a fair trial,” Schiff said. “It’s not a trial at all.”
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) renewed her call for a “fair trial” in a tweet Tuesday in which she also characterized Trump’s lawyers as having argued that he has “a right to abuse his power as much as he wants.”House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) renewed her call for a “fair trial” in a tweet Tuesday in which she also characterized Trump’s lawyers as having argued that he has “a right to abuse his power as much as he wants.”
Her tweet came a day after Trump lawyer Alan Dershowitz told the Senate that “purely noncriminal conduct, including ‘abuse of power’ and ‘obstruction of justice,’ are outside the range of impeachable offenses.”Her tweet came a day after Trump lawyer Alan Dershowitz told the Senate that “purely noncriminal conduct, including ‘abuse of power’ and ‘obstruction of justice,’ are outside the range of impeachable offenses.”
“Trump’s lawyers argued he has a right to abuse his power as much as he wants, and Congress can do nothing about it,” Pelosi said in her tweet. “Sounds familiar.”“Trump’s lawyers argued he has a right to abuse his power as much as he wants, and Congress can do nothing about it,” Pelosi said in her tweet. “Sounds familiar.”
She then quoted Trump from a speech in July in which he asserted Article II of the Constitution gives him “the right to do whatever I want as president.”She then quoted Trump from a speech in July in which he asserted Article II of the Constitution gives him “the right to do whatever I want as president.”
“Congress can do something: hold a fair trial,” Pelosi added.“Congress can do something: hold a fair trial,” Pelosi added.
Senate Minority Whip Richard J. Durbin (D-Ill.) on Tuesday panned a plan by Sen. Patrick J. Toomey (R-Pa.), an influential conservative, to summon just two witnesses in Trump’s trial, with one called by Republicans and one by Democrats.Senate Minority Whip Richard J. Durbin (D-Ill.) on Tuesday panned a plan by Sen. Patrick J. Toomey (R-Pa.), an influential conservative, to summon just two witnesses in Trump’s trial, with one called by Republicans and one by Democrats.
Asked on CNN whether he’d consider trading Bolton for Hunter Biden, Durbin strongly pushed back on the notion.Asked on CNN whether he’d consider trading Bolton for Hunter Biden, Durbin strongly pushed back on the notion.
“Listen, we’re not trading baseball cards,” Durbin said. “We’re not kids sitting around here, picking our favorite and putting them in the middle of the circle. … This idea of bargaining — ‘Well, we’ll give you one irrelevant witness for one material witness’ — baloney.”“Listen, we’re not trading baseball cards,” Durbin said. “We’re not kids sitting around here, picking our favorite and putting them in the middle of the circle. … This idea of bargaining — ‘Well, we’ll give you one irrelevant witness for one material witness’ — baloney.”
Durbin said Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr., who is presiding over Trump’s trial, should decide which witnesses are relevant.Durbin said Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr., who is presiding over Trump’s trial, should decide which witnesses are relevant.
Durbin’s comments echoed those of Sen. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), who told reporters Monday that he has no interested in a Bolton-for-Hunter Biden trade.Durbin’s comments echoed those of Sen. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), who told reporters Monday that he has no interested in a Bolton-for-Hunter Biden trade.
“I refuse to be part of the same conspiracy that is the subject of impeachment,” Murphy said. “I mean the whole point of the impeachment case is that the president was using the official powers of his office to trash his political opponents, and now they’re asking us to use our official powers as members of the Senate to trash the president’s political opponents. I’m not going to do that.”“I refuse to be part of the same conspiracy that is the subject of impeachment,” Murphy said. “I mean the whole point of the impeachment case is that the president was using the official powers of his office to trash his political opponents, and now they’re asking us to use our official powers as members of the Senate to trash the president’s political opponents. I’m not going to do that.”
Rep. Val Demings (D-Fla.), one of the House impeachment managers, argued Tuesday that Trump’s defense team’s arguments have evolved in recent days.Rep. Val Demings (D-Fla.), one of the House impeachment managers, argued Tuesday that Trump’s defense team’s arguments have evolved in recent days.
During a CNN appearance, Demings was asked about an assertion Monday by Trump lawyer Alan Dershowitz that “nothing in the Bolton revelations, even if true, would rise to the level of an abuse of power or an impeachable offense.”During a CNN appearance, Demings was asked about an assertion Monday by Trump lawyer Alan Dershowitz that “nothing in the Bolton revelations, even if true, would rise to the level of an abuse of power or an impeachable offense.”
“We’ve gone from ‘The president did nothing wrong, the call was perfect’ to ‘There was no quid pro quo’ to ‘Well, if I did do it, so what?’ ” Demings said. “The American people are not going to fall for that.”“We’ve gone from ‘The president did nothing wrong, the call was perfect’ to ‘There was no quid pro quo’ to ‘Well, if I did do it, so what?’ ” Demings said. “The American people are not going to fall for that.”
The call she referred to took place in July between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Trump has repeatedly described the call, in which he pressed Zelensky for an investigation of the Bidens, as “perfect.”The call she referred to took place in July between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Trump has repeatedly described the call, in which he pressed Zelensky for an investigation of the Bidens, as “perfect.”
As the Senate trial unfolds on Capitol Hill, Trump plans Tuesday to announce his long-awaited Middle East peace plan before heading to New Jersey for a “Keep America Great” campaign rally with Rep. Jeff Van Drew (R-N.J.), a former Democrat who switched his affiliation after the House voted last month to impeach Trump.As the Senate trial unfolds on Capitol Hill, Trump plans Tuesday to announce his long-awaited Middle East peace plan before heading to New Jersey for a “Keep America Great” campaign rally with Rep. Jeff Van Drew (R-N.J.), a former Democrat who switched his affiliation after the House voted last month to impeach Trump.
Trump’s Middle East peace plan expected to offer Palestinians conditional statehoodTrump’s Middle East peace plan expected to offer Palestinians conditional statehood
Trump is scheduled to appear alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at a White House event at noon at which his aides say he is expected to detail a proposal for resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict that dates from Israel’s founding in 1948.Trump is scheduled to appear alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at a White House event at noon at which his aides say he is expected to detail a proposal for resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict that dates from Israel’s founding in 1948.
The president previewed his proposal in private meetings Monday with Netanyahu and the veteran Israeli leader’s challenger in upcoming elections, Benny Gantz.The president previewed his proposal in private meetings Monday with Netanyahu and the veteran Israeli leader’s challenger in upcoming elections, Benny Gantz.
Tuesday night’s rally is being held in Wildwood, N.J. Trump has often used his campaign rallies to air grievances about his impeachment and the Democrats who pushed it.Tuesday night’s rally is being held in Wildwood, N.J. Trump has often used his campaign rallies to air grievances about his impeachment and the Democrats who pushed it.
A Trump campaign spokesman on Tuesday compared the emergence of the Bolton manuscript to allegations of sexual misconduct against Supreme Court Justice Brett M. Kavanaugh.A Trump campaign spokesman on Tuesday compared the emergence of the Bolton manuscript to allegations of sexual misconduct against Supreme Court Justice Brett M. Kavanaugh.
Kavanaugh’s confirmation hearing in 2018 was upended by late-hour allegations that he had committed sexual assault while a teenager in the 1980s. He was eventually confirmed after days of dramatic testimony and debate.Kavanaugh’s confirmation hearing in 2018 was upended by late-hour allegations that he had committed sexual assault while a teenager in the 1980s. He was eventually confirmed after days of dramatic testimony and debate.
“Striking parallels between Bolton leak & what Dems and the media tried to do to Brett Kavanaugh,” tweeted Tim Murtaugh, the communications director for the Trump campaign. “Same playbook: Breathless media reporting ‘bombshells’ to try to alter events. Bolton leak changes no facts, but Trump opponents and the media are obviously working hand in hand.”“Striking parallels between Bolton leak & what Dems and the media tried to do to Brett Kavanaugh,” tweeted Tim Murtaugh, the communications director for the Trump campaign. “Same playbook: Breathless media reporting ‘bombshells’ to try to alter events. Bolton leak changes no facts, but Trump opponents and the media are obviously working hand in hand.”
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) on Tuesday widely shared a New York Times editorial that supports calling Bolton and other witnesses in the Senate trial.House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) on Tuesday widely shared a New York Times editorial that supports calling Bolton and other witnesses in the Senate trial.
“It’s just possible that common sense and reality have a shot at prying open the doors to the Senate chamber after all,” said the editorial, which Pelosi’s office blasted to reporters over email. “After Republican senators claimed that it was perfectly reasonable to put a United States president on trial without hearing from any witnesses, a few of them are showing signs of recognizing that the truth matters. Or, at least, that the American people believe it does.”“It’s just possible that common sense and reality have a shot at prying open the doors to the Senate chamber after all,” said the editorial, which Pelosi’s office blasted to reporters over email. “After Republican senators claimed that it was perfectly reasonable to put a United States president on trial without hearing from any witnesses, a few of them are showing signs of recognizing that the truth matters. Or, at least, that the American people believe it does.”
The editorial cited comments from several Republicans in response to reports that Bolton’s book manuscript says Trump directly tied the holdup of nearly $400 million in military assistance to Ukraine to investigations of Biden and his son.The editorial cited comments from several Republicans in response to reports that Bolton’s book manuscript says Trump directly tied the holdup of nearly $400 million in military assistance to Ukraine to investigations of Biden and his son.
Trump’s legal team is set Tuesday to present its third and final day of opening arguments in his impeachment trial in the Senate, as debate continues outside the chamber over whether Bolton and other witnesses will be called.Trump’s legal team is set Tuesday to present its third and final day of opening arguments in his impeachment trial in the Senate, as debate continues outside the chamber over whether Bolton and other witnesses will be called.
The trial is scheduled to resume at 1 p.m.The trial is scheduled to resume at 1 p.m.
On Monday, Trump’s lawyers pushed forward with their defense of the president, largely ignoring the uproar caused by leaked details from a book by Bolton. As part of their defense, they pivoted into a sharp line of attack on Joe Biden and his son Hunter over their involvement in Ukraine.On Monday, Trump’s lawyers pushed forward with their defense of the president, largely ignoring the uproar caused by leaked details from a book by Bolton. As part of their defense, they pivoted into a sharp line of attack on Joe Biden and his son Hunter over their involvement in Ukraine.
Trump’s attorneys also devoted some of their floor time Monday to arguing that Trump acted appropriately in delaying the security aid to Ukraine, and that he did so because of his concerns about corruption in that country and about whether other nations were doing their fair share in providing security support.Trump’s attorneys also devoted some of their floor time Monday to arguing that Trump acted appropriately in delaying the security aid to Ukraine, and that he did so because of his concerns about corruption in that country and about whether other nations were doing their fair share in providing security support.
Once Trump’s team wraps up, senators will be given up to 16 hours to pose written questions to both the House managers and Trump’s defense team.Once Trump’s team wraps up, senators will be given up to 16 hours to pose written questions to both the House managers and Trump’s defense team.
Once that takes place, a crucial vote is expected, possibly on Friday, on whether to hear from witnesses before the trial concludes. For Democrats to succeed in calling witnesses, they will need at least four GOP senators to vote with them.Once that takes place, a crucial vote is expected, possibly on Friday, on whether to hear from witnesses before the trial concludes. For Democrats to succeed in calling witnesses, they will need at least four GOP senators to vote with them.
A hard-charging conservative lawyer little known to the public is responsible for executing some of the White House’s most divisive and legally aggressive moves, including the hold on Ukrainian aid now central to Trump’s impeachment trial.A hard-charging conservative lawyer little known to the public is responsible for executing some of the White House’s most divisive and legally aggressive moves, including the hold on Ukrainian aid now central to Trump’s impeachment trial.
Mark Paoletta, general counsel at the White House Office of Management and Budget, signed off on the delay of security assistance to Ukraine, overruling the objections of some career staffers at the OMB and the Pentagon. The Government Accountability Office recently determined that the delay was unlawful.Mark Paoletta, general counsel at the White House Office of Management and Budget, signed off on the delay of security assistance to Ukraine, overruling the objections of some career staffers at the OMB and the Pentagon. The Government Accountability Office recently determined that the delay was unlawful.
Paoletta’s below-the-radar role in a decision key to Trump’s impeachment is just one example of how he has enabled the White House to stretch the legal limits of the executive branch — forcefully pushing forward the administration’s agenda but sometimes incurring a severe backlash in the process.Paoletta’s below-the-radar role in a decision key to Trump’s impeachment is just one example of how he has enabled the White House to stretch the legal limits of the executive branch — forcefully pushing forward the administration’s agenda but sometimes incurring a severe backlash in the process.
Read more here.Read more here.
As Trump faces mounting legal bills from his impeachment trial, he is drawing on national party coffers flush with donations from energized supporters — unlike the last president to be impeached.As Trump faces mounting legal bills from his impeachment trial, he is drawing on national party coffers flush with donations from energized supporters — unlike the last president to be impeached.
The Republican National Committee is picking up the tab for at least two of Trump’s private attorneys in the ongoing trial, an arrangement that differs from the legal fund President Bill Clinton set up, only to see it fail to raise enough to cover his millions of dollars in bills before he left office.The Republican National Committee is picking up the tab for at least two of Trump’s private attorneys in the ongoing trial, an arrangement that differs from the legal fund President Bill Clinton set up, only to see it fail to raise enough to cover his millions of dollars in bills before he left office.
The law firms of Trump’s lead lawyer, Jay Sekulow and attorney Jane Raskin have received a total of $225,000 from the RNC through November, according to the most recent campaign finance reports. The party will pay the duo for their work this month and likely into February as the trial continues, according to people familiar with the arrangement who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss internal financing.The law firms of Trump’s lead lawyer, Jay Sekulow and attorney Jane Raskin have received a total of $225,000 from the RNC through November, according to the most recent campaign finance reports. The party will pay the duo for their work this month and likely into February as the trial continues, according to people familiar with the arrangement who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss internal financing.
Read more here.Read more here.
Trump returned to Twitter late Monday to share a spate of tweets and retweets, many of them focused on impeachment.Trump returned to Twitter late Monday to share a spate of tweets and retweets, many of them focused on impeachment.
Among them was a tweet by Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.) questioning why Bolton had declined to testify during the House impeachment proceedings.Among them was a tweet by Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.) questioning why Bolton had declined to testify during the House impeachment proceedings.
“Why didn’t John Bolton testify to the US House? Apparently his book wasn’t quite finished yet for presales!” Paul tweeted.“Why didn’t John Bolton testify to the US House? Apparently his book wasn’t quite finished yet for presales!” Paul tweeted.
A court has been asked to define the limits of what federal employees may say in the workplace about the impeachment and trial of Trump without running afoul of restrictions against partisan politics by civil servants.A court has been asked to define the limits of what federal employees may say in the workplace about the impeachment and trial of Trump without running afoul of restrictions against partisan politics by civil servants.
The request, filed last Friday in an ongoing suit, asks the court to immediately block policies that it says are causing federal employees to self-censor out of fear of being charged with violating the Hatch Act.The request, filed last Friday in an ongoing suit, asks the court to immediately block policies that it says are causing federal employees to self-censor out of fear of being charged with violating the Hatch Act.
Those policies were issued in 2018 when impeachment was only a theoretical topic, “but with the impeachment trial dominating national news, the issue has become more urgent as the policy is chilling the free speech rights of federal employees,” said the American Federation of Government Employees, which is sponsoring the suit.Those policies were issued in 2018 when impeachment was only a theoretical topic, “but with the impeachment trial dominating national news, the issue has become more urgent as the policy is chilling the free speech rights of federal employees,” said the American Federation of Government Employees, which is sponsoring the suit.
The Hatch Act bars federal employees from using their official authority to support a political party, candidate in a partisan race or partisan political group. Also, while on duty or in a federal workplace, they may not engage in political activity directed at the success or failure of such a party, candidate or group. Penalties for violations can range up to firing and debarment from future federal employment.The Hatch Act bars federal employees from using their official authority to support a political party, candidate in a partisan race or partisan political group. Also, while on duty or in a federal workplace, they may not engage in political activity directed at the success or failure of such a party, candidate or group. Penalties for violations can range up to firing and debarment from future federal employment.
The Office of Special Counsel, an independent agency that enforces that law, said in early 2018 that “merely discussing impeachment, without advocating for or against its use against such a candidate, is not political activity.” For example, it said, employees “may discuss whether reported conduct by the president warrants impeachment and express an opinion about whether the president should be impeached” but may not display signs in the office for or against impeachment.The Office of Special Counsel, an independent agency that enforces that law, said in early 2018 that “merely discussing impeachment, without advocating for or against its use against such a candidate, is not political activity.” For example, it said, employees “may discuss whether reported conduct by the president warrants impeachment and express an opinion about whether the president should be impeached” but may not display signs in the office for or against impeachment.
The AFGE motion, though, contends that “the distinction between ‘advocating’ for or against impeachment and ‘expressing an opinion about whether the president should be impeached’ is indecipherable.”The AFGE motion, though, contends that “the distinction between ‘advocating’ for or against impeachment and ‘expressing an opinion about whether the president should be impeached’ is indecipherable.”
Read more here.Read more here.