Former President Donald Trump’s second impeachment trial ended in his acquittal on Feb 13. His accusations of inciting a mob of his followers to attack the Capitol last month ended in bloodshed. Despite most senators voting to convict Trump, the number was not enough to bring about a conviction. Trump is the only president to be impeached twice. 

Summary of the Trial

Evidence presented against Trump included inflammatory speeches given by Trump Jr., Rudy Giuliani, and the Ex-President before the riot. In one instance, Giuliani even called for “trial by combat”. Footage showed Senator Mitt Romney stopped by a Capitol Police Officer from running into a crowd of Trump’s supporters. Rioters were also running through the Capitol with Confederate flags attacking officers.

Trump’s lawyers did not mount much of a defense. His original lawyers dropped the case before the trial began. Called for assistance was Michael van der Veen, a personal injury lawyer. Although his political speech is protected by the constitution, Democrats used similar rhetoric speeches. He also claimed Trump could not have incited violence because he called for peace. 

Before the final arguments, the senators debate hearing from witnesses of the insurrection. After an hour of recess, they did not call witnesses to the stand. In the trial’s conclusion, 57 senators voted guilty, and 43 voted to acquit. The minimum number of votes needed to impeach a president is 67.

The Presidents’ Reactions

President Joe Biden made a chilling statement at the Cronin response to the trial’s conclusion. He said, “This sad chapter in our history has reminded us that democracy is fragile…we must be ever vigilant That violence and extremism have no place in America”. He continues, “Each of us has a duty and responsibility as Americans, and especially as leaders, to defend the truth and to defeat the lies”.

Trump also made a ranting statement saying, “Our historic, patriotic and beautiful movement to Make America Great Again has only just begun…In the months ahead I have much to share with you, and I look forward to continuing our incredible journey together to achieve American greatness for all of our people”.