U.S. Senator Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., is proposing a resolution that would censure President Donald Trump over the president’s actions toward Ukraine. Manchin, who is often recognized as having a friendly relationship with the president, has been seen as a key vote in the Senate’s impeachment trial.
Like other senators, Manchin took the opportunity to give remarks outlining his thoughts on the process thus far. He criticized those who voted against hearing from witnesses. Manchin also announced his desire to reprimand the president through a censure resolution.
“History will judge the Senate harshly for failing in its constitutional duty to try this case and do the impartial justice, to defend the Constitution, and to protect our democracy,” Manchin said Monday on the Senate floor.
A draft of Manchin’s censure resolution — which has not yet been introduced and is the first such proposal from a member of the Senate — states that President Trump “abused the trust of the American people” in matters involving Ukraine that lead to the House of Representatives adopting two articles of impeachment.
The first alleges the president abused the power of his office by withholding foreign aid in exchange for an investigation into a political rival. The second argues President Trump obstructed Congress’ investigation into him by directing White House staff not to comply with subpoenas.
The draft resolution goes on to state:
“Whereas future generations of Americans must know that— (1) such behavior is not only dangerous to our national interest but does not align with American values and the principles of the Constitution of the United States; and (2) such actions bear grave consequences, including loss of integrity, trust, and respect; and Whereas no one, not even the President, is above the law.”
Senators are expected to hold a final vote Wednesday on whether to convict or acquit Trump on the two impeachment charges. A two-thirds majority is needed to remove a president from office. But with Republicans holding 53 of 100 seats, a conviction remains unlikely.
Manchin said Monday he remains undecided on how he will vote.