Toomey must support fair Senate trial

I am writing to request that Sen. Pat Toomey, R-Pa., vote to allow a fair trial in the Senate, with a process that includes witnesses and documents, in the impeachment of President Donald Trump.

Please recognize the abnormal and troubling early actions of the Trump campaign, transition and administration: contacts by Trump officials with Russians, lies to the FBI from these officials representing crimes.

Acknowledge that the Russians, not the Ukrainians, sought to elect Mr. Trump through illegal and clandestine means. And accept that the Trump administration’s obstruction left the Mueller investigation incomplete.

I hope Mr. Toomey agrees that the Trump administration has made every effort to lift sanctions on Russia and adopt other policies that serve Russian interests over those of America. (I wonder, might that be called a quid pro quo?)

My belief is that the obstruction of the impeachment inquiry has allowed some skeptics to suggest not enough evidence exists to remove Mr. Trump from office.

Only by securing testimony under oath can firsthand witnesses make the picture complete.

I have read the oath senators must take before participating in an impeachment trial, and I can’t imagine how the Senate can claim impartial justice without a fair hearing of witnesses and review of documents. I know what I’m asking means putting country over party.

Please, Mr. Toomey, seek a fair trial and uphold the oath; and do all you can to compel others to do the same. LEONARD M. JAKOVAC

Bethel Park