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Published -
- December 4, 2019
- 4:51 pm
Jonathan Turley: ‘This is wrong…’
Jonathan Turley, professor at George Washington University Law School, delivers his opening statement at the House Judiciary Committee’s public impeachment hearing.
What is Jonathan Turley’s opinion on the current impeachment proceedings against President Donald Trump?
Jonathan Turley, an American law professor, has recently spoken out about the impeachment proceedings against President Donald Trump, stating that the process is wrong and should not be pursued on the basis of anger alone.
Turley, who testified during the impeachment of former President Bill Clinton, argued that Democrats’ rush to impeach Trump has led to a lack of consideration for the constitutional consequences of their actions. He suggests that while Trump’s behavior may be seen as inappropriate, it does not rise to the level of an impeachable offense.
According to Turley, impeachment is a serious matter that should not be taken lightly: “Impeachment is not a policy choice. It is reserved for the most serious allegations of misconduct by a president.” He points out that the House of Representatives must be able to prove that Trump committed a crime or abuse of power that reaches the standard of a high crime or misdemeanor, as outlined in the Constitution.
Turley also points out that the anger and frustration felt by many Democrats as a result of Trump’s behavior should not be the sole basis for impeachment: “Being mad is no basis for impeachment.” He notes that the process must be based on evidence and facts, rather than emotions.
Turley’s argument is backed by other legal experts, who contend that the current impeachment proceedings do not meet the necessary constitutional threshold for impeachment. Trump’s actions, including his controversial phone call with the Ukrainian president and alleged attempt to use military aid for personal gain, may be seen as inappropriate, but they do not constitute a “high crime or misdemeanor.”
In conclusion, Jonathan Turley’s argument highlights the importance of taking impeachment seriously and following constitutional protocols. While anger and frustration may be driving the current impeachment proceedings, evidence and facts must be the foundations of any impeachment case. As Turley states, “This is wrong.” Impeachment should only be pursued when there is clear evidence of a serious offense, and not simply as a result of political anger or frustration.
