A group of six Democrats entered several articles of impeachment Wednesday (Nov. 15) against President Trump, accusing him of charges including obstruction of justice and undermining the freedom of the press, among others. The move is seen as largely symbolic by lawmakers, as it has very little chance of moving forward in the Republican-controlled House.The large majority of Democrats seem more interested in waiting to see how special counsel Robert Mueller’s investigation into ties between the Trump campaign and Russia pans out, reports the AP.
“We have taken this action because of great concerns for the country and our Constitution and our national security and our democracy,” Rep. Steve Cohen (D-TN) announced at a news conference.
Cohen went on to say he understands the Republicans hold the House majority and will probably be unwilling to hold hearings on the impeachment articles. The other articles of impeachment include Trump accepting emoluments from foreign states and from the U.S. government, and undermining the federal judiciary. Many Democrats believe any action taken to impeach Trump at this time will ultimately fail, and would only serve to fire up Trump’s base for the 2018 midterm elections Cohen and the others who introduced the articles disagree.
“I think the Democratic base needs to be activated. The Democratic base needs to know there are members of Congress willing to stand up against this president,” Cohen said.