A spokesperson for Alaska Sen. Lisa Murkowski has told reporters that the moderate Republican will vote “NO” on subpoenaing new witnesses in the impeachment trial of President Trump.
Murkowski spokeswoman confirms she will vote “NO” on witnesses, statement coming shortly. https://t.co/cWGKEey8N4
— Seung Min Kim (@seungminkim) January 31, 2020
**BREAKING** Murkowski will vote against additional witnesses… THIS IMPEACHMENT SHAM IS OVER.
— Tim Young (@TimRunsHisMouth) January 31, 2020
Murkowski’s decision means the Senate will move directly to debating acquittal or conviction and heralds an almost certainly swift end to impeachment.
The Hill explains her rationale:
Murkowski said she had worked to produce a fair process modeled after the Clinton impeachment trial, but blamed the House for rushing “flawed” impeachment articles.
“I worked for a fair, honest, and transparent process, modeled after the Clinton trial, to provide ample time for both sides to present their cases, ask thoughtful questions, and determine whether we need more,” she said. “The House chose to send articles of impeachment that are rushed and flawed. I carefully considered the need for additional witnesses and documents, to cure the shortcomings of its process, but ultimately decided that I will vote against considering motions to subpoena.”
Murkowski also said the trial had not been fair and that Congress had failed as an institution.
“Given the partisan nature of this impeachment from the very beginning and throughout, I have come to the conclusion that there will be no fair trial in the Senate. I don’t believe the continuation of this process will change anything. It is sad for me to admit that, as an institution, the Congress has failed,” she said.
This story is developing. Stay with American Action News for the latest details.
AAN Staff
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