The NPR Politics Podcast Trump Legal Team Says Quid Pro Quo In Pursuit Of Reelection Isn't Impeachable
Jan 30, 2020
Legal arguments surrounding impeachment take center stage, with claims that actions benefiting reelection cannot justify impeachment. Adam Schiff's skeptical response highlights the tension in interpreting quid pro quo. The potential inclusion of witnesses like John Bolton adds complexity to the Senate's proceedings. Senators are grappling with personal versus public motives, creating a charged atmosphere as they engage more actively. Political dynamics among vulnerable Democratic senators further complicate party unity and strategy.
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Swing Vote Senators
- Senators Collins, Murkowski, and Romney are key swing votes in the impeachment trial.
- They are concerned about presidential power and motives behind actions.
Presidential Motive and Impeachment
- Alan Dershowitz argued that if a president believes their reelection is in the public interest, a quid pro quo isn't impeachable.
- Adam Schiff countered, questioning if this sets a dangerous precedent for future presidents.
Shifting Questioning Dynamics
- Initially, senators mostly asked predictable questions reinforcing their own side's arguments.
- Later, more interesting questions arose, including one from Senator King about John Kelly's support of John Bolton's credibility.