This week, Congress voted to impeach President Donald Trump for his role in fomenting a mob attack on the Capitol. Now it must decide when to hold trial, and whether to convict. Some Republicans are calling it another political witch-hunt. Some point out the ridiculousness of impeaching someone about to leave office. Others fear it will divide the nation further. While these may be valid concerns, they only look at short-term impacts. There is a long-term perspective that needs consideration.
Last week, President Donald Trump used an incendiary speech to induce citizens gathered in Washington DC to attack Congress. He implored the group to stop the electoral college ratification that would give election victory to Trump’s opponent, Joe Biden. The crowd heeded his words, broke into the Capitol, overran Capitol Police, and damaged and stole property. Five people died in the assault. After several hours, Capitol Police, DC District Police, and DC National Guard troops restored order and removed the insurgents. Congress completed the ratification in the wee hours of the morning. Now Congress is deciding when to prosecute and whether to convict Donald Trump for his role in inciting the violence.
While it may seem expedient to let President Trump off the hook, that incurs a long-term cost. Allowing one branch of government to attack another branch attacks the rule-of-law. Separation and balance of powers was the key ingredient to making the nation-state work. Ignoring the attack would endorse such behavior, threaten the balance of power, and strengthen forces that would lead us backward into autocracy. Furthermore, punishment must fit the crime. Censure, while expedient, is used for thoughtless indiscretions. Using the 25th Amendment to remove him from office would have the right outcome but was arguably meant for incapacitation rather than criminal behavior. Using the 14th Amendment to prevent him from holding office again would send a permanent signal. However, impeachment and conviction best matches the punishment and crime.
While the process will be painful, maintaining the long-term balance of powers requires a strong condemnation of this action. In this case, impeachment is an investment in democracy.
Photo: Bloomberg.com
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