I’ll be darned if the Republicans in the House haven’t managed to give the Democrats a gift — an “open goal,” if not an “own goal.” You soccer and hockey and lacrosse players will know the terms.
Here’s the story.
On 6 February, Representative Matt Gaetz, Republican of Florida, deposited with the Clerk of the House a proposed resolution. See gaetz.house.gov/...
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118 TH CONGRESS
2D SESSION H. RES. ll
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Mr. GAETZ submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.
RESOLUTION
Resolved, That it is the sense of the House of Representatives that former President Donald J. Trump did not engage in insurrection or rebellion against the United States, or give aid or comfort to the enemies thereof.
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So far, some sixty Republican representatives have pledged their support.
What comes next?
If the Democrats ignore it, nothing much. Big yawn, right? Even if it is adopted, so what? It’s just cheap entertainment for the admirers of the former toxic occupant of the White House.
But what if the Democrats, led by Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, recognize this as a gift?
The Democrats should insist on extensive and intensive and thorough hearings. Hearings allow debate. Debate requires evidence. Evidence is provided by witnesses. Conclusions to be drawn from the witnesses, evidence, and debate require application of good faith and awareness of whether the arguments are being made in good faith.
The Democrats have witnesses, evidence, and good faith arguments (remember the Select Committee hearings in 2022?), as well as some outstanding debaters. The House Republicans have little or none of those assets or qualities.
My advice: Get the hearings scheduled for late August through September and October. Make sure that they are massively publicized. Watch and pity the Republicans as they attempt to justify the unjustifiable in prime time. Pity them, but show no mercy!
Result? I can’t guarantee it, but if the Democrats use their advantages wisely, I predict a spectacular own goal by the Republicans.
Discuss.
No, better — Call and write your congressperson, with copy to Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, to urge them to show the world how Democrats get things done while Republicans stand there and complain that it’s “so unfair.” Of course, the beauty of this plan is that the Republicans will be the ones responsible for it. It’s their show. It’s their resolution. It will be their — what’s a good analogy? — time for weeping and gnashing of teeth. On their dime!
I will welcome your comments here. Does someone have a suitable photo illustrating an own goal? Preferably in amateur sport. However, it is much more important to see this through to a favorable conclusion.
Let’s do it! Let’s trust the good sense of the American people.
Vince S