In an interview with Chris Ryan and Justin McIsaac, the Representative from New Hampshire’s First Congressional District, Chris Pappas, discusses the importance of today’s vote to impeach President Trump and the possibility of a swift trial and conviction vote in the Senate, and he addresses allegations that members of Congress gave assistance to the rioters
Congressman Pappas views the impeachment of Donald Trump as a needed step to punish high crimes and misdemeanors committed by the President. The Congressman believes that, even in the waning days of President Trump’s term, it is important to maintain a stable government, to ensure a peaceful transfer of power, and to show that there is accountability by pursuing impeachment.
President Trump’s actions and lack of action once the assault on the Capitol Building is discussed by Congressman Pappas, “We waited hours for the National Guard to be called out. Why did it take so long to get support for the Capitol Police force once they were overwhelmed?”
Congressman Pappas believes that Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell will allow an impeachment trial in the Senate before the end of this term or it will take place after the inauguration. In either case, the Congressman says, “This country needs a reckoning when we have a dangerous president who has violated his oath of office and has put our democratic republic in peril.”
There have been allegations that some member of Congress tweeted directions and suggested targets to the rioters during the siege of the Capitol. Congressman Pappas praises the heroism of the Capitol Police, but he is in favor of a thorough investigation of the security failures on that day. Chris Pappas also believes that there is a need for a comprehensive review of the role of members of Congress in organizing and inciting the insurrection of January 6th.
In the final segment of the interview, Congressman Pappas discusses whether Congress will be able to impeach and convict President Trump, investigate the siege of the Capitol, transition the new administration, and deal with many problems related to the COVID pandemic.
“When it comes down to doing the work of the American people and addressing the crises at hand, I think that you’re going to see everyone having a laser-like focus.”
Congressman Pappas feels that there is a growing movement among the moderates of both parties to cooperate and work together on needed legislation.