Supreme Court Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr., presiding over the trial, gaveled in the proceedings at 1:18 p.m. The Senate will now hear the views of House managers and Trump’s attorneys regarding a resolution proposed by Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) that seeks a swift trial. Democrats, including Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer (N.Y.), have panned the proposal, arguing that it is part of an effort to “cover up” Trump’s dealings. In public appearances Tuesday, the House impeachment managers urged the Senate to reject McConnell’s rules.
The impeachment charges center on the allegation that Trump withheld military aid and a White House meeting to pressure Ukraine to investigate former vice president Joe Biden, a political rival, as well as his son Hunter Biden.
- White House calls for Trump acquittal in ‘rigged’ impeachment as Senate prepares for quick trial.
- Trump’s lawyers, Senate GOP allies work privately to ensure former national security adviser John Bolton does not testify publicly.
- Republicans rally behind Trump as Senate impeachment trial begins.
