Everybody understands that impeachment is a political affair. The standards that try to insure fairness in other legal proceedings don’t have to apply. But, come on. Aren’t there limits to how unfair it can be?
This week, we have heard from some of the Senators who will soon serve as “jurors.” Here’s what they’ve said. Juror Ted Cruz said the impeachment was nothing more than a “partisan show trial.” Juror Rand Paul said that there was nothing wrong with Senators already making up their minds. Juror Lindsay Graham flatly said that he has no intention of being impartial. And, of course, Jury Foreman Mitch McConnell has said that his team is already united behind a not guilty verdict and, if that’s not enough, he is presently meeting with the defendant’s team to coordinate how the trial should be run.
Holy shit!
My research showed that the term “Kangaroo Court” was originally meant to imply a system synonymous with the way unsophisticated animals live in the wild. That derivation seems particularly apt here.
Here’s the oath that every Senator will take when the trial starts:
I solemnly swear (or affirm) that in all things appertaining to the trial of Donald John Trump now pending, I will do impartial justice according to the Constitution and laws, so help me God.
Right after they all lower their hands, they should be arrested for perjury.
I suppose that I shouldn’t be shocked, but the fact that this is not shocking should, itself, be what shocks us. Trump-time has so eviscerated our sense of decency that the invalidation of our basic legal norms is nothing new.
Now, I’m not saying that the Democrats are purity personified in this drama. To say that their minds are also probably made up is like saying that Kourtney Kardashian’s tits are probably not natural. It might be my bias, but I see the Democrat’s position differently. First, their inclination to convict is infinitely more justifiable. Secondly, they have enough respect for the process to keep their predilection to themselves.
So, I’m readying myself for the Senate show. I assume it will be televised everywhere. I hope it’s carried in Australia. The kangaroos will love it.
We were right 