Featured Post from Cedarville University

All about impeachment – and does it really matter?

Jan 7, 2020

2 min

Mark Caleb Smith, Ph.D.

It’s dominating the news and the airwaves, but an event that was once expected to rival the trial of O.J. Simpson seems to be getting caught up in what most government hearings tend to be – boring, bureaucratic and not really captivating viewing for those living outside the beltway.


And for some, the reality is the impeachment process seems to be coming with self-fulfilling expectations. Unfortunately, in these hyper-partisan times, the result may likely not be dictated by the facts presented. Despite what compelling evidence is presented by either side, the House will impeach, and the Senate will acquit. That’s how the game will play out.


Though procedure will be followed – will it matter?


"But in fact, McConnell has repeatedly said he would indeed hold a trial — too many times to reverse himself, in all probability, as the Hill reports:

“Under the impeachment rules of the Senate, we’ll take the matter up. The chief justice will be in the chair … We intend to do our constitutional responsibility,” he said.


McConnell had previously indicated that he would have “no choice” but to take up impeachment if the House passes articles, though he has also [run] a Facebook ad over the recent two-week recess positioning himself and the GOP-controlled Senate as a roadblock to Trump being removed from office." New York Magazine – November 13



If you’re a reporter covering the impeachment hearings and want to know what to expect, what does matter and how this event will influence politics and government moving forward – then let our experts help.


Mark Caleb Smith is the Director of the Center for Political Studies at Cedarville University. Mark is available to speak with media regarding Trump, impeachment and what follows. Simply click on his icon to arrange an interview.

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Mark Caleb Smith, Ph.D.

Mark Caleb Smith, Ph.D.

Professor of Political Science

Dr. Smith is an expert in American politics, campaigns & elections, and constitutional law.

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