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As incredible as it seems, the evidence unearthed thus far, damning as it is, does not seem to be having a significant effect in changing the minds of the president’s supporters. Rather than rushing to judgment in deference to the election clock, why not take more time, delving more deeply into the many other avenues an impeachment inquiry into this president warrants?

The argument for expanding the inquiry beyond its currently conceived boundaries makes sense, especially since there are a number of avenues available for further investigation, be it emoluments, conflicts of interest, possible tax irregularities and other alleged financial improprieties, to name a few.

Some cite the impending election as a reason to rush to judgment, claiming it will interfere with certain Democratic senators’ campaign efforts. While this argument may have some merit, it depends on a false equivalency resulting from a misguided effort to equate personal political aspirations with a genuine constitutional crisis; no equivalency exists here. It might also be argued that the election campaign season is much longer than necessary anyway.

On the other hand, the more evidence that can be uncovered, the fewer the angles trumps acolytes will be able to manipulate in his defense. The current consensus—that the Senate won’t convict—further argues for a more drawn-out impeachment investigation, providing more  time to flesh out details, allowing the Courts more time to weigh in on the many appeals pending in defense of protecting the president from the consequences of his actions, and giving the public more time to reflect upon the revelations revealed thus far as well as those yet to be uncovered. And, perhaps most importantly, this would provide more time for the Democrats to craft an education campaign to help the public understand the true nature of the Republican campaign to rewrite history:  Until this happens, the trumpers can continue their campaign of plausible deniability–no matter how implausible the basis for their denials–to exploit the country’s divisiveness to their (and trump’s) political advantage.

Tim Konrad

November 22, 2019