OPINION:
Congress’ charge that former President Trump’s continuous assertions of the fraudulence of the 2020 election results culminated in the Jan. 6 riot is not valid.
To substantiate thr charge, Congress would have to prove that Mr. Trump knowingly stated his belief and statements were not true. Given the number of irregularities that occurred, election integrity is highly questionable and Mr. Trump’s stated views are quite conceivable. They are also shared by several million citizens.
Furthermore, Congress’ stance suggests that Mr. Trump committed a crime by challenging the results of the election. But he had a right to do. Such a position also violates freedom of speech.
Congress has ignored that the Jan. 6 riot started well before the president’s speech ended. While not wise, the speech did not incite the riot.
As is being reported at the highest levels of law enforcement, several domestic terrorist groups had planned and coordinated for the riot. They had even done reconnaissance the previous day. The plan was to enter the Senate chamber and indiscriminately shoot those present.
As happened, the terrorists expected some crowd members would follow their lead. Others, not violent, later stated they did not know their presence was illegal, which is another sad commentary on the nation’s public education system.
Congress’ attempt to again impeach Mr. Trump can be likened to trying an individual for a crime for which the statute of limitations has expired. The action is both procedurally and substantively unconstitutional.
Congress is setting itself up for embarrassment and/or loss on appeal.
HESSIE L. HARRIS
Silver Spring, Md.
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