The NPR Politics Podcast Weekly Roundup: Friday, November 15
Nov 15, 2019
Ambassador Marie Yovanovitch reveals a pressure campaign against her during her impeachment testimony, sparking discussions on witness intimidation. The podcast also covers the entrance of Michael Bloomberg and Deval Patrick into the Democratic race, highlighting the challenges they face. Plus, a guilty verdict for Roger Stone shifts focus on the implications of his conviction amidst ongoing investigations. The conversation wraps up with a lighthearted look at Hallmark Christmas movie tropes and a fun contest for movie critiques.
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Yovanovitch Testimony and Trump Tweet
- Marie Yovanovitch testified about her ousting from Kyiv and a smear campaign against her.
- During the hearing, President Trump tweeted negatively about her, which she and Rep. Adam Schiff viewed as witness intimidation.
White House Defense
- The White House defended Trump's tweet as simply stating his opinion.
- They argue that it wasn't witness intimidation since the impeachment inquiry is not a trial, while also calling for due process.
Right to Remove Ambassadors
- Republicans argue that the president has the right to remove ambassadors, and Yovanovitch agreed.
- However, Yovanovitch is concerned about the precedent of removing ambassadors based on smear campaigns by potentially corrupt individuals.