President Trump became the first president in American history to be impeached twice on January 13, 2021, just over one year after his first impeachment. This article serves as a brief guide to what this impeachment is, why this impeachment is being pushed so close to the end of Trump’s term, and what this impeachment means for Trump’s future in politics or lack thereof.
What Exactly is Trump Being Impeached For?
The House of Representatives accused Trump of inciting violence at the Capitol by urging his supporters to “fight like hell” against what he falsely claimed was a stolen election. In response to his remarks at a “Save America” rally, Trump supporters took to the Capitol. The storming of the Capitol resulted in the deaths of 5 people, including a Capitol Police officer.
The House impeached Trump for his role in the Capitol riots and charged him with “incitement of insurrection.” House Speaker Nancy Pelosi stated, “we know that the president of the United States incited this insurrection, this armed rebellion, against our country. He must go. He is a clear and present danger to the nation we all love,” when she opened the debate over whether to charge the president again.
Why Impeach Him So Close to the End of His Term?
Trump’s second impeachment is being pushed so near the end of his term for a few reasons. If the Senate was able to convict Trump before the end of his term, some of his post-presidential benefits would be revoked. His benefits include a yearly pension of over $220,000 according to the National Taxpayers Union Foundation.
An impeachment trial cannot begin until Trump’s last full day in office meaning if the Senate does proceed to a trial, Trump would not be removed from an office he no longer holds. If the Senate successfully convicts him, they can vote to ban Trump from seeking office ever again, according to The Wall Street Journal.
What Does This Mean For Trump’s Future in Politics?
If the Senate proceeds to a trial and successfully convicts Trump, he can be banned from ever seeking office again. This includes running for president, senate, mayor, or any other public office.
If the Senate does not vote to ban Trump from seeking office again, he will be eligible to run again in 2024, which he has expressed interest in.
Trump’s trial is set to conclude after President-Elect Joe Biden’s inauguration next week. His last impeachment trial lasted 21 days.