Republicans reportedly inching toward blocking further impeachment witnesses


Republican senators are feeling increasingly certain they will be able to vote down a proposal to introduce new witnesses — like former National Security Adviser John Bolton — to President Trump's impeachment trial, The New York Times reports.
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) reportedly told fellow Senate Republicans on Tuesday that he does not yet have enough votes locked down to prevent the approval of witnesses. However, the growing sentiment on Wednesday was that moderate Republicans who were possible contenders to side with Democrats in bringing new witnesses were beginning to feel comfortable moving forward without new evidence.
Sen. John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) told reporters if Republicans get a majority vote against new witnesses, they'll move directly into a vote on whether to acquit Trump on both articles of impeachment.
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Summer Meza has worked at The Week since 2018, serving as a staff writer, a news writer and currently the deputy editor. As a proud news generalist, she edits everything from political punditry and science news to personal finance advice and film reviews. Summer has previously written for Newsweek and the Seattle Post-Intelligencer, covering national politics, transportation and the cannabis industry.
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