Once again, columnists in the United States blame the Democrats for using the old ploy to justify the means to impeach former President Donald Trump, who rules like a mob boss. Eventually, I fear his disease will metastasize, destroying the authority of the justice system and effectively destroying the power of our votes.
Remember how President Bill Clinton used the witch hunt defense to evade responsibility for an illicit sexual relationship he had with Monica Lewinsky, until he couldn’t deny it anymore?
And remember President Richard Nixon’s claims that the Justice Department and the Washington Post were coming after him, while he complained about being the subject of a political witch hunt? Nixon, Clinton, and now Trump apparently instinctively sought witch-hunt neutralizers in their presidential utility belts.
Is this all about power? Yes, of course, at least in a fundamental sense.
When Republicans are in control of the House, they can rightfully start any investigation they want and establish procedural protocols. So they bashed Hillary Clinton for decades, including Whitewater investments, Benghazi and her ever-loving emails. They did not find a single avenue of prosecution.
When Democrats control the House, by law, it’s up to them to set up whatever investigative committees they want.
Some highlights usually indicate which side is scoring more points. They generally do not admit the known mistakes and try to keep the accusations about the other side in perpetuity.
When Republicans stand before Congress, they look like the world’s most morally outraged victims, even as Mitch McConnell, William Barr, and even Fox News hosts occasionally drop their facades; they just have to get tired of spreading so many lies!
Peter W. Johnson
superior
Reader view and local opinions
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