Republicans’ Kangaroo Court is in session

In a United States court of law evidence is presented by the prosecutor, the defense attorneys present their case, and for the most part a fair and impartial judgement is rendered. That is unless the jury foreman is collaborating with the defense and other jurors were voicing their support for the accused; we would then have a mistrial.

We are currently witnessing a like scenario; Senate Republican Majority Leader Mitch McConnell is openly mocking the Constitution he swore to defend. McConnell, who will essentially be acting as the jury foreman, has been collaborating with White House counsel on the details of what will be presented as the president’s defense. In a typical McConnell boast Trump is already acquitted and a speedy vote will confirm it.

He’s not alone in this objectionable behavior: Senate Judiciary Committee Chair Lindsey Graham showed his disdain for the rule of law, stating in an interview, “I’m trying to give a pretty clear signal I have made up my mind.” All total, 37 Republican senators have indicated they will vote to acquit.

It remains to be seen whether Chief Justice John Roberts will insist on a fair trial, or if he will instead circumvent his judicial duties and adopt a partisan attitude. Republicans called the House impeachment hearings a “kangaroo court”; McConnell’s refusal to allow witnesses and documents will guarantee a rigged court.

Apparently Republicans have opted to display farcical behavior, mocking the seriousness of their sworn duties and breaching the trust of the American people.

— Roger Beadle, Chico