VIDEO No Question: We're In Investigation To Determine Articles Of Impeachment | The Last Word | MSNBC

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No Question: We're In Investigation To Determine Articles Of Impeachment | The Last Word | MSNBC On September 14, 2019, the episode of The Last Word with Lawrence O'Donnell featured a significant discussion regarding the impeachment inquiry of then-President Donald Trump. The conversation primarily centered around comments from Jerry Nadler, the Chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, in response to a Justice Department filing regarding access to materials from Special Counsel Robert Mueller’s investigation.

Key Highlights:​

• Justice Department's Position: The Justice Department argued that the House Judiciary Committee should not have access to grand jury materials because impeachment is not considered a judicial proceeding. They suggested that due to the nature of impeachment inquiries, such requests for grand jury evidence were unwarranted.
• Nadler's Counterarguments: In the video, Nadler firmly refuted this claim, asserting that the committee is indeed conducting an investigation aimed at determining whether to recommend articles of impeachment. He emphasized that while terms like "impeachment inquiry" may lack legal definitions, the process they are undertaking is effectively an impeachment investigation.
• Comparative Historical Context: Nadler drew parallels to past impeachment processes, notably the impeachments of Presidents Nixon and Clinton, indicating that those involved similar investigative procedures without specific house authorizations at the outset.
• Broader Implications: Nadler expressed concern over the Trump administration's efforts to obstruct congressional oversight and the presentation of evidence, stating that such actions jeopardize the constitutional balance of power intended to prevent executive overreach.
  

  Significance of the Discussion:​

  This content remains relevant as it touches upon ongoing discussions about the balance of powers in American governance and the necessary scrutiny of executive actions. The implications of these proceedings extend beyond just the political landscape of 2019, shaping the public's understanding of legislative powers, accountability, and the mechanisms of checks and balances that are fundamental to the U.S. government structure.
  

  Reflecting on the 2024 Context:​

  As we move into 2024, it is crucial to reflect on how these discussions of impeachment and presidential conduct continue to influence political discourse. The precedents set during this period are likely still being debated as the public and political entities grapple with issues of accountability and transparency in governance.​

  Feel free to share your thoughts on the developments from the video or your views on how impeachment processes have evolved over time! What do you think are the most pressing issues regarding executive accountability today?