Thread by @PostOpinions

From the Editorial Board:

It is our view that more than enough proof exists for the House to impeach President Trump for abuse of power and obstruction of Congress.

Here is a summary of the evidence: wapo.st/38sbXa4

Trump’s actions were an abuse of his presidential powers.

He used his official authority — offering an Oval Office meeting to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky — to obtain a personal benefit: mud he could sling at a likely opponent in 2020. wapo.st/38sbXa4

The Office of Management and Budget placed a hold on $391 million in military aid to Ukraine on July 12 on Trump’s orders.

It remained in place until Sept. 11, long after an interagency review unanimously concluded it should be released. wapo.st/38sbXa4

State and Defense Department officials testified that they were never given an explanation for the hold, and there is no direct testimony about the motive.

But four senior officials concluded that the aid was linked to the demand for investigations. wapo.st/38sbXa4

What we do know:

Trump released the funds six days after this Editorial Board reported he was using them to pressure Zelensky, and two days after three House committees announced they would investigate the charge. wapo.st/38sbXa4

Some Republicans argue that since Trump released the aid, no harm was done.

But U.S. officials testified that there has been extensive damage to U.S.-Ukrainian relations — to Russia’s benefit. wapo.st/38sbXa4

We take no pleasure in recommending the president’s impeachment and are aware of the considerable costs and risks.

But the House must make its decision based on the facts and merits, setting aside unpredictable second-order effects. wapo.st/38sbXa4