05-07-2019, 09:18 PM
(05-02-2019, 01:57 PM)oncemoreuntothejimbreech Wrote: Based upon what? Obstruction of justice? They will reach the same conclusion as Mueller; while we can't say he did, we can't say he didn't. The Republican controlled Senate would never impeach Trump with that level of certainty/uncertainty.
Impeachment is something the democrats shouldn't pursue because the Senate will ensure it will never succeed. Unless the purpose of pursuing impeachment is some Benghazi-like smear campaign and if it is shame on them. It is a waste of time, effort, and tax payer's money.
What the democrats need to focus on instead of impeachment is a platform for the next presidential election which will attract voters. Something Hillary Clinton failed to do effectively and is the real reason she lost the election, although Russian interference and a campaign of misinformation certainly played a part. Instead of concentrating on what they can do to damage their opponent politically, they need to focus on what they can do to help their constituents. That applies to both parties.
Mueller's conclusion was constrained do to his adherence to the OLC opinion that a sitting President should not be indicted. For that reason, Mueller would not, and could not, charge Mr. Trump himself. Given that he could not charge the POTUS based on said adherence to the OLC's opinion, it also limited him as far as any statements concerning presumed guilt or innocence.
Instead, he chose to present 10 examples of clear obstruction in his report for consideration to those that due have the power and obligation to evaluate the actions of the POTUS and determine how to proceed.
Hundreds of current and former prosecutors recently submitted their conclusion on the matter, and in their collective judgement, Mr. Trump broke the law on several occasions. Congress has an obligation -- regardless of election posturing or consternation -- to due it's duty, which includes impeachment if they determine the evidence warrants it. I have a hard time believing that any rational person could look at the evidence at this point and make any determination other than the President obstructed or attempted to obstruct (also a crime) multiple times.
If the Democrats follow your advice and forgo impeachment, I fear they will be seen as extremely weak and disinterested in justice, which will in turn cause the a greater portion of the electorate to throw their collective hands in the air and ask, "why even bother." If everyone is exempt from accountability and the Democratic party is unwilling to provide a sense of justness and fairness, then why should the masses care which party wins.
You're correct that impeachment in the House will die with the current Senate. However, it would at least show that the Democrats are willing to take a stand, show a semblance of backbone and carry out the lawful duty. If they don't, I will offer that it makes Trump all the more powerful and greatly enhances his bid for a second term. He will look strong and vindicated, while Democrats will look weak and incompetent.
