Four reasons the charges are justified

Reasons for a fair impeachment trial:

1. Requesting foreign interference in U.S. elections.

The founders of our American democracy clearly foresaw one important challenge: the threat of foreign interference.

Example of the threat: President Trump, on television, asked Russia, "Russia, if you're listening, find and expose Clinton's emails." During a TV interview, he invited China and Ukraine to get involved in our elections. He said, "If I was offered dirt, I think I would use it."

2. Breaking the emoluments clause.

Another guardrail of our democracy is the emoluments clause, prohibiting any government officer from accepting a title or a gift from any foreign government.

Example 1: Numerous foreign governments routinely spend lavishly for accommodations at Trump properties in Washington and other establishments around the world to get exposure to or favor from Trump.

Example 2: During the infamous July 25 call, which started the impeachment inquiry between Trump and Ukrainian President Zelenskiy, Zelenskiy mentions to Trump, "My friends are patronizing Trump businesses."

This issue is now in a trio of lawsuits in the courts. The claim is that Trump's businesses are violating our Constitution, and have been in federal courts for months, and are now advancing to critical stages.

3. Abuse of power.

Example of abuse: Trump threatened President Zelenskiy to investigate the Bidens. Just 90 minutes after the July 25 call, the Congressional Office of Management and Budget was ordered to hold all aid to Ukraine and keep this information a secret.

4. Obstruction of justice.

Example of obstruction: President Trump ordered the blocking of all witness testimony and all documentation. Lawmakers deposed 17 current and former executive branch employees willing to comply with subpoenas. To date, none of his top staff will comply.

Let's insist on seeing documents and hearing witnesses. No one is above the law.

Susan Rosner

Marengo