This archive report was first published on 23 November 2019.
On November 23, 2019, the House impeachment inquiry concluded after two weeks of compelling testimony. Four conclusions stand out from the proceedings.
First, there is now overwhelming evidence that President Trump withheld military aid from Ukraine to pressure the country's president, Volodymyr Zelensky, to open investigations that would benefit Trump politically. These investigations were based on discredited allegations and served only one purpose: to advantage Trump personally.
Trump's actions are a clear abuse of power, as he used his position to extort false information about his rival, Joe Biden. This is a stark contrast to Vice President Biden's actions in 2016, when he openly and transparently worked to remove a corrupt Ukrainian prosecutor, in line with bipartisan American and European policy.
Second, the impeachment hearings have showcased the exceptional character and integrity of nonpartisan career Foreign Service officers, civil servants, and military personnel. These officials displayed a commitment to country and the law, even in the face of personal attacks and intimidation orchestrated by the president.
Third, it is now apparent that most Republicans in Congress have abandoned their duty to serve the national interest. They have resorted to distortions, discredited conspiracy theories, and blatant lies to distract from the facts that implicate President Trump.
Lastly, the primary beneficiary of our domestic dysfunction and divisions is President Vladimir Putin of Russia. Republicans in Congress are spreading Russian-sponsored conspiracy theories, and President Trump's actions consistently serve Russian rather than American interests.
