Cohen hearing

[Belsnickel]

(02-27-2019, 07:15 PM)Sociopathicsteelerfan Wrote: I don't see a vote to impeachment as a definite win for the Dems.  As you rightly allude to, it will be political theater, which can always backfire.  It would also fire up Trump's base and people leaning that way.  It would be very easy to paint the Dems as attempting to usurp the POTUS and subvert democracy.  This type of thing would be red meat for right leaning voters.  It really hurts how this would be perceived because there's been talk of impeaching Trump from the minute the election was decided.

I understand your point, but I really don't see this as a slam dunk triumph for the Dems.

I am of the opinion that impeachment proceedings should begin if, and only if, Mueller comes out with a report that says (paraphrasing here): under normal circumstances I would file an indictment against Trump, but because of DoJ policy I cannot proceed.

If that were to happen, then it is entirely appropriate for impeachment proceedings to occur and it would be difficult for all but the most ardent MAGA blowhards diehards to deny the legitimacy of the proceedings. Short of that, though, the proceedings would risk further dividing the country in a dangerous way.

(02-27-2019, 07:22 PM)Vas Deferens Wrote: I would rather the southern district draw out the charitable foundation investigation investigation until after he's out of office so they can send his fat petulant ass straight to prison.  

I'd rather reduce the chances of pardoning him.

If he wins a second term, there may be that sticky wicket of the statute of limitations.

(02-27-2019, 07:28 PM)Sociopathicsteelerfan Wrote: If that was a person's goal that would be a smarter way to do it.  This raises an interesting thought, though.  Could Trump admit to and/or pardon himself for criminal activity before an investigation was even made or charges subsequently filed?  

I believe that a preemptive pardon is not an option, and I think (but could be wrong) that a self-pardon is also off the table.