In an apparent reflection of the Senate impeachment trial of Donald Trump, Senator Lindsey Graham said, “I hope I will be proven wrong, but it seems that impeachment based on partisan differences seems to be becoming the norm, not the exception.”
I hope I will be proven wrong, but it seems that impeachment based on partisan differences seems to be becoming the norm, not the exception.
— Lindsey Graham (@LindseyGrahamSC) February 13, 2021
This statement came after Trump was acquitted of charges of incitement to insurrection. The final vote in the Senate was 57-43, with seven Republican Senators voting in favor of conviction.
Graham added, “I fear that if this model is followed in the future—impeachment to disqualify one from holding office based on partisan hatred—will become the norm.”
I fear that if this model is followed in the future – impeachment to disqualify one from holding office based on partisan hatred – will become the norm.
— Lindsey Graham (@LindseyGrahamSC) February 13, 2021
These statements further highlight the deep partisan divide between the two parties. The constitutionally-questionable and partisan trial followed the events on January 6th, where the Capitol was breached by protestors.
Graham was concerned with the lack of regular procedures being applied to the trial, and if it would set a precedent for current and future partisan impeachment proceedings. “For the good of the country, I hope this will be the last Senate impeachment where a President is impeached … without witnesses, and a trial record is built on hearsay upon hearsay,” Graham said.
Trump’s legal team had maintained that the trial was unconstitutional and unnecessary since Trump no longer held office. Following his acquittal, Trump said, “In the months ahead I have much to share with you, and I look forward to continuing our incredible journey together to achieve American greatness for all of our people.”
