Delay emboldens Trump’s actions

The case for impeachment becomes more evident as each day unfolds, and the president appears determined to provide evidence and exhibit behavior that warrants an impeachment inquiry.

Some argue that a form of appeasement would be preferable to impeachment. Despite acknowledged evidence to support impeachment, some argue that since the 2020 elections are close, wait and let the voters decide. They also argue impeachment will likely hurt Democrats.

To be sure, the impeachment process harms the entire country, not just political parties. Taking measures to reverse the results of an election are both extraordinary and undesirable steps that threaten democracy.

Should the House vote to impeach, it will be up to the Senate’s Republican majority to acquit the president or convict him and remove him from office. These senators have emboldened this president through their support, and they should be left to decide how right or wrong they are.

Irrespective of the Senate’s direction, there will be an election in 2020 where voters will judge the actions of Congress. Waiting until 2020 instead of acting now will likely empower Trump and allow Senate Republicans to avoid answering for their role in this debacle. Delaying impeachment in favor of elections would only ser ve to diminish the power of congressional oversight and embolden other office holders to take even more drastic actions that undermine our democracy and imperil our country ’s safety and security.

Appeasement and postponement are not the solution. The solution is for leaders to lead.

Whichever direction the House and the Senate choose, their actions will provide voters with the information they need in 2020 to determine who will best secure our country’s future.

Jack Cunningham Menands