Honor
To the Editor:
Until two months ago, I was not in favor of impeachment. Now, any impartial observer must conclude that the president is guilty; guilty of witness intimidation, guilty of obstructing justice, and guilty of bribery.
I am a graduate of the United States Naval Academy and a combat veteran. Members of the military, as well as members of Congress, take an oath to protect and defend our Constitution.
Service men and women honor their oath by presenting a blank check to the United States of America. The debit on that check may be loss of an arm or leg, or loss of one’s life. Will Republican members of Congress honor their oath to protect our Democracy and Constitution?
If the Republicans are unable honor their oath, I will not vote for any Republican candidate for any office, regardless of how qualified he or she may be. You may be certain I will share my view with friends and family.
Respectfully,
Paul R. Arneth
884 A Heritage Village, Southbury December 17, 2019
Editor’s note: Mr Arneth was a longtime Newtown resident.
First, Thank you for your service and Graduation from Annapolis is an achievement few can claim.
However I must point out President Trump was not impeached for Witness Intimidation, Obstruction of Justice or Bribery. He was impeached for Abuse of Power and Obstruction of Congress. Neither of which are violations of either US Code or an article of the Constitution. (Even Treason, mentioned in the Constitution has to be specified in the US Code to be charged.)
Many Constitutional Scholars, and jurists have trouble with the Obstruction of Congress as the Congress (House of Representatives) choose not to take this matter to the courts, (Nixon refused Congressional subpoena’s until the Supreme Court upheld them and then he complied). The House is holding itself as the final arbiter and not in concert with the Supreme Court as was first said in Marbury v. Madison.
Abuse of Power? He is not doing anything other Presidents have not. This is setting a bad precedent.
There was earlier suggestions of violating the Emoluments Clause, which is covered by US Code.
I cannot defend this Presidents personal behavior, he is a bully and a boor, but if that is an impeachable offense we are in serious trouble finding anyone qualified to serve in the future.