VIDEO The Atlantic Makes The Case For Impeachment | Morning Joe | MSNBC

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The Atlantic Makes The Case For Impeachment | Morning Joe | MSNBC In a compelling episode of Morning Joe on MSNBC, Yoni Appelbaum from The Atlantic joins the panel to discuss his provocative cover story, "Impeach Donald Trump." This conversation takes place against the backdrop of Trump’s presidency, exploring the implications of impeachment as a constitutional process rather than an isolated event.

Key Discussion Points​

1. The Nature of Impeachment: Appelbaum argues that impeachment is essential for holding a president accountable, stating that merely starting these proceedings can prompt important discussions about a president's fitness for office. He emphasizes that the process itself can serve as a necessary check on executive power.
2. Historical Context: The discussion references the intentions of the Founding Fathers, indicating that they designed impeachment as a means to channel public debate and protect democratic ideals. Appelbaum highlights the importance of Congress in this process, suggesting that failure to engage can lead to a dangerous precedent.
3. Public Opinion: The panel also delves into the polarized nature of public sentiment regarding Trump's presidency. Appelbaum acknowledges the challenges posed by the approximately 40% of Americans who support Trump, suggesting that bringing the impeachment debate to Congress could mitigate some of these divisions by fostering a more constructive dialogue.
4. Risks and Benefits: While there are legitimate concerns about the potential backlash from Trump supporters, Appelbaum posits that not addressing these issues candidly could be more harmful. He recalls historical instances where impeachment discussions yielded benefits even if they did not result in removal from office.
5. Constitutional Responsibilities: Appelbaum reiterates that the oath of office entails preserving, protecting, and defending the Constitution, a duty he argues Trump has not upheld. By initiating impeachment proceedings, Congress can reaffirm its role in maintaining governmental integrity and restoring faith in democratic institutions.
   

   Conclusion​

   This episode encourages reflection on the duties and limits of presidential power. It's an insightful look into how the impeachment process serves as both a preventative measure and a constitutional safeguard, urging the public and Congress to engage meaningfully in the political discourse surrounding presidential conduct. If you're curious about the historical precedents and contemporary implications of this discussion, feel free to share your thoughts or experiences related to political accountability. What do you think of the arguments presented by Appelbaum? Let's discuss!