Just been in the Senate chamber for the final legal arguments in Trump's trial before witnesses vote. Some bits from inside the room...
Joe Manchin gave Lisa Murkowski a huge bear hug when she entered, patting her on the back before they chatted. Two waverers on different sides [Dem + GOP] under immense pressure from their voters back home.
Mitch McConnell, GOP leader, sat back straight and fingers crossed for much of the final 2 hours.
Chuck Schumer, top Democrat, was slumped in his chair, head on his right hand for chunks of the debate.
Chuck Schumer, top Democrat, was slumped in his chair, head on his right hand for chunks of the debate.
Adam Schiff and Jay Sekulow are both forceful, fluent advocates for their sides. More charismatic, more energy than the others on each of their teams. Can feel them drawing more eyes when they talk.
Tension in the room has dropped markedly with Alexander and Murkowski showing their hand. Republicans have the votes to kill witnesses - the only qu now, barring shock twist, is when.
Public chamber is fuller than many of the days of the trial so far - though not every seat taken. Senators also much more relaxed about not being in their places when proceedings begin. Dozen+ seats were empty at start of GOP argument.
The big unknowns remaining...
- How comfortably are witnesses defeated?
- When will acquittal vote happen? Probs another day
- Will any Dem vote no to obstruction article? [Probs]
- Will any Dem vote no to abuse of power article? [Tbc]
- Will any Repub vote for either?
- How comfortably are witnesses defeated?
- When will acquittal vote happen? Probs another day
- Will any Dem vote no to obstruction article? [Probs]
- Will any Dem vote no to abuse of power article? [Tbc]
- Will any Repub vote for either?
