Ex-President Trump to face 2nd impeachment trial in Congress

Ramin Mazaheri

Press TV, Chicago

After a 2020 full of tension and political protests, the United States is about to be consumed by the second impeachment trial of ex-president Donald Trump.

He is charged with incitement to insurrection over January’s violent protest inside the home of Congress. A supermajority of 67 votes in the Senate is required for conviction. Last month a vote to dismiss the trial completely was rejected by just a 55 to 45 margin, causing the widespread assumption that Trump will be found not guilty.

In voting on his fate it appears as if Senate Republicans, like with the House of Representatives’ impeachment vote last month, will be publicly divided into Trumpian and non-Trumpian factions that could weaken the united strength of conservatives. If Trump is convicted the most popular Republican would be banned from ever holding office and could not run for president in 2024.

Showing how polarized American politics have become, public opinion on impeachment falls totally along party lines, polls show that 90% of Democrats want Trump convicted whereas 90% of Republicans favor acquittal.

Holding the trial, amid the coronavirus and economic catastrophes, has created tremendous controversy in an already battered nation. Many hoped the inauguration of Joe Biden would herald a more united era, but the trial has put that on hold and for perhaps some time.

While acquittal seems nearly certain, the only true certainty is that the trial will produce a media circus. It’s the latest shocking event in an election year which for many just won’t end.

Press TV’s website can also be accessed at the following alternate addresses:

www.presstv.ir