Trump impeachment: Republicans seek delay in trial

Republicans in the US Senate are requesting the Democrats to delay former President Donald Trump’s impeachment trial until February.

As per the details, they say that this will give Mr. Trump time to prepare for his defense.

What do Republicans say?

Senate minority leader Mitch McConnell said he had asked House Democrats to hold off sending the single impeachment article to the Senate until 28 January – a move which would kick-start the trial’s first phase. He said this on a call to his fellow Republican senators.

Arguments are expected to begin in mid-February.

Mr. McConnell said in a statement: “Senate Republicans are strongly united behind the principle that the institution of the Senate, the office of the presidency, and former President Trump himself all deserve a full and fair process that respects his rights and the serious factual, legal, and constitutional questions at stake.”

Moreover, Senator John Cornyn of Texas told the international news agency that he and fellow Republicans had been discussing the need to allow Mr. Trump “due process”.

On the contrary, ten republicans sided with House Democrats in impeachment.

According to the international news agency, Democrats would need the support of at least 17 Republicans to convict Trump, as a two-thirds vote is required.

Did Democrats say anything?

Mr. Schumer’s office has not yet stated anything on Mr. Connell’s request. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has also refused to answer journalists’ questions on Thursday about when she would submit the charge.

But she said Mr. Trump did not deserve a “get out of jail card” just because he had left office.