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elleng

(130,906 posts)
Thu Apr 25, 2019, 10:58 PM Apr 2019

The Danger in Not Impeaching Trump

'It may be risky politically, but Congress has a responsibility to act.

By Elizabeth Drew

'The decision facing the House Democrats over whether to proceed with an impeachment of President Trump is both more difficult and more consequential than the discussion of it suggests. The arguments offered by House leaders, in particular Speaker Nancy Pelosi, against it are understandable, including that impeachment could invite a wrenching partisan fight; render the party vulnerable to the charge that it’s obsessed with scoring points against Mr. Trump; and distract Democrats from focusing on legislation of more interest to voters.

But the Democrats would also run enormous risks if they didn’t hold to account a president who has clearly abused power and the Constitution, who has not honored the oath of office and who has had a wave of campaign and White House aides plead guilty to or be convicted of crimes.

The argument that the Democratic House wouldn’t be able to focus on substantive legislation is the flimsiest rationale. It did so in 1974 while the House Judiciary Committee was considering the impeachment of Richard Nixon. It seems clear that what the Democratic leaders are actually worried about is public relations. The press no doubt would focus on that sexier subject.

Several Democrats are trying to have it both ways. They want to avoid giving the impression that they’re chasing impeachment — heaven forfend! — while at the same time various committees are attempting to expose Mr. Trump’s tax returns, his business dealings and whether his financial interests guided some of his foreign policies — any of which could make impeachment more likely, perhaps inevitable.'>>>

https://www.nytimes.com/2019/04/25/opinion/trump-impeachment.html?

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BigmanPigman

(51,591 posts)
1. I just saw her speak on Lawrence O'Donnell and was VERY impressed
Thu Apr 25, 2019, 11:18 PM
Apr 2019

and am now scared shitless! Thank you for posting this. Everyone should read it and listen to her speak about what happens if we do not win in 2020 and do not impeach. We are fucked.

RESIST!

Call Congress to be connected to your rep in the House via Tom Steyer "Need To Impeach"...

(571)200-3505

Skip to 32:20

https://topnewsshow.com/the-last-word-with-lawrence-odonnell-4-25-19/


MySideOfTown

(225 posts)
5. Correct me if I'm wrong. The house has the power of the purse.
Fri Apr 26, 2019, 12:15 AM
Apr 2019

Nancy and company might defund it all if their demands are not met?

SunSeeker

(51,557 posts)
8. The House must start impeachment investigation hearings immediately.
Fri Apr 26, 2019, 04:03 AM
Apr 2019

That is what Hillary is calling for, it is what Elizabeth Warren is calling for.

As Elizabeth Drew pointed out on Lawrence O'Donnell, the House managed to pass legislation all during the Nixon impeachment process. We can walk and chew gum at the same time.

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