Trump’s second impeachment trial

Donald Trump’s role in inciting the January 6 Capitol riot has led to the first ever impeachment trial of a former U.S. president. If he is found guilty he could be barred from future office


CHARGES 
House of Representatives has charged Trump with “incitement of insurrection” for his fiery speech to followers at rally prior to deadly attack on Capitol

Trial set for week of Feb 8


TRIAL
Constitution stipulates only that Supreme Court Justice John Roberts must preside over trial of sitting president
    
If Roberts declines to preside, task would fall to president of Senate – Vice-President Kamala Harris – who could choose to delegate to longest-serving Democrat senator, Patrick Leahy


CONVICTION
Requires two-thirds majority of Senate, meaning votes of 17 Republicans needed as well as all 50 Democrats

Democrats 48*	Republicans 50 
Total 100

Senate Republican leader 
Mitch McConnell


POSSIBLE DEFECTORS
Six Republicans are likely to vote for impeachment. McConnell could provide cover for more defections if he signals support for conviction

Lisa Murkowski
Alaska
 
Mitt Romney
Utah

Ben Sasse 
Nebraska

Susan Collins 
Maine

Pat Toomey 
Pennsylvania

Rob Portman 
Ohio

 
If Trump is convicted, Senate could hold another vote to block him from holding “any office of honor, trust or profit under the United States.” 
Vote would require simple majority of senators only


*2 independents caucus with Democrats


Sources: Reuters, The Hill, New York Times 
Pictures: Getty Images 
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