To Impeach or Not to Impeach? The Trump Question Facing Democrats

Democrats are optimistic about their chances of regaining control of Congress in the upcoming midterm elections. Even some Republicans admit they may lose control of the House and potentially the Senate. If either chamber changes hands, one of the most significant decisions they may face is whether to impeach President Donald Trump for a third time. This decision will be influenced by more than just the math.

Some Democrats believe Trump's actions necessitate constitutional accountability, while others fear impeachment would overshadow his policies, bolster his political standing, and end in another Senate acquittal. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries has not taken a definitive stance, stating that Democrats would investigate potential wrongdoing, follow the facts, apply the law, and let the chips fall where they may.

Determining the impact of impeachment on a new majority is a crucial question. While a Democratic House could impeach Trump with a simple majority, conviction and removal require a two-thirds majority in the Senate, which is likely to involve Republican support regardless of the November election outcome. Former Democratic Representative Joe Cunningham argues that lawmakers should focus on addressing corporate practices and economic pressures that make everyday life more expensive, rather than constant impeachment.

Impeachment would consume the attention of Congress and overshadow other issues Democrats are trying to address. Former Obama White House chief of staff Rahm Emanuel explicitly opposes another impeachment, stating that it will not go anywhere and will lead to a food fight. Instead, he urges investigations into alleged corruption followed by a broader ethics package.

Senator Tammy Duckworth and Representative Raja Krishnamoorthi also advise against prioritizing impeachment as the party's first goal after winning the House. They worry that Democrats could win on economic dissatisfaction, only to shift attention back to Trump. The House has impeached three presidents on four occasions, but all were acquitted in the Senate. Impeachment could risk neutralizing a constitutional safeguard and create partisan loyalty above one's oath of office.