US President Donald Trump will face an impeachment trial for a second time. This time charges against him are inciting insurrection in a fiery speech to his supporters before they attacked the Capitol on January 6.
The Senate leaders have agreed to give impeachment managers and Trump's lawyers 16 hours each over the period of two days to present their cases creating an opportunity to debate and call witnesses. The House prosecutors have argued that Trump had a “singular responsibility” for the Capitol attack and that the trial would deter any future president who might consider provoking violence in the pursuit of power. The impeachment managers have requested and been granted an option to hold a debate and vote on calling witnesses
This time around, senators wouldn't be required to remain at their desks, as they were required to do so during Trump's first impeachment trial due to the need for social distancing due to the coronavirus pandemic.
The trial is likely, to begin with, a debate on whether the proceedings are unconstitutional as they are being held after he departed from the White House. While Democrats have argued that the trial is not just about winning the conviction but holding Trump accountable for his actions, Republicans have argued that the proceedings are a farce and a waste of time.
The Republicans and Biden's team hope to complete the trial expeditiously. A prolonged trial could make it more difficult for Congress to pass Biden's $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief plan and complete the confirmation of nominees to government posts, a Reuters report reads.
It would be highly unlikely that Trump would get convicted. The Democrats case rests upon the video of rioters at the Capitol and a video of them saying how they were inspired by Trump to attack the Capitol in subsequent indictments.
