Little more than halfway through Day #3. The Senate Chaplin began his opening prayer by urging us not just to hear but to also practice empathetic attentiveness. & to remember our friendships in the Senate. The Chaplin can always be counted on to appeal to our higher principles.
The House managers provided an excellent review of the constitutional rationale, history and precedent for impeachment for a President’s abuse of power. Even my colleagues with law degrees found it fascinating and full of good information.
The White House lawyers argue in their 171-page brief that abuse of power is not impeachable. Let’s just say it’s hard to find a legal expert to support their position. But we’ll learn more about that when they begin their presentation.
One other thing: This morning before the Trial started, I reviewed a classified document with a statement from Vice President Pence’s senior aide, describing a telephone conversation between the Vice President and Ukrainian President Zelensky.
I can’t comment on the content of the document. What I can say is classifying a document solely because it contains embarrassing or damaging information is not a good reason.
I’m heading back on the floor for another several hours.
I’m heading back on the floor for another several hours.
