Transcript
Yesterday (Tuesday) the Senate began the first day of its impeachment trial of President Donald Trump, approving the rules for the trial.
The rules puts off a decision to subpoena witnesses and documents until after opening statements are given.
The vote came early this morning (Wednesday) after a marathon day of arguments.
It was a party-line vote, 53 to 47.
At one point the debate over the rules got so heated that Chief Justice John Roberts had to step in to scold both the Democratic House managers in the president’s defense team.
Starting today, each side will get 24 hours over three days to present their case.
The House managers get to go first and have the next three days to present their case.
The trial resumes at 1 p.m. today Eastern time and opening arguments are expected to begin.
Originally, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell had proposed two days, instead of three.
But he backed off concerns from key Senate Republicans.
Democrats aren’t satisfied with the changes and accuse McConnell and Republicans of trying to rush through the impeachment trial.
Posted 1.22.20