The United States has officially returned to the Paris climate accord, exactly one month after Joe Biden took office as the president and immediately moved to rejoin.

The world's largest economy and second largest carbon emitter was formally back in the 2015 accord on Thursday.

The re-entry of the United States means that the Paris accord again includes virtually every country after Biden's predecessor Donald Trump made the US the sole outlier.

"Climate change and science diplomacy can never again be 'add-ons' in our foreign policy discussions," Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement saluting the return of the United States.

Biden plans an April 22 climate summit to coincide with Earth Day and John Kerry, the former secretary of state and now US climate envoy, has called for the world to raise ambitions during UN climate talks in Glasgow in November.

Biden has vowed to make the US power sector pollution-free by 2035 and to go to an entirely net-zero-emission economy by 2050.

The Paris accord aims to limit global temperature rises to two degrees Celsius (3.6 Fahrenheit) above pre-industrial levels and to pursue efforts to go down to 1.5 degrees.

Trump had argued that the Paris climate accord was unfair to the United States.

The United States has officially returned to the Paris climate accord, exactly one month after Joe Biden took office as the president and immediately moved to rejoin.

The United States has officially returned to the Paris climate accord, exactly one month after Joe Biden took office as the president and immediately moved to rejoin. The world's largest economy and second largest carbon emitter was formally back in the 2015 accord on Thursday. The re-entry of the United States means that the Paris accord again includes virtually every country after Biden's predecessor Donald Trump made the US the sole outlier. "Climate change and science diplomacy can never again be 'add-ons' in our foreign policy discussions," Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement saluting the return of the United States. Biden plans an April 22 climate summit to coincide with Earth Day and John Kerry, the former secretary of state and now US climate envoy, has called for the world to raise ambitions during UN climate talks in Glasgow in November. Biden has vowed to make the US power sector pollution-free by 2035 and to go to an entirely net-zero-emission economy by 2050. The Paris accord aims to limit global temperature rises to two degrees Celsius (3.6 Fahrenheit) above pre-industrial levels and to pursue efforts to go down to 1.5 degrees. Trump had argued that the Paris climate accord was unfair to the United States.

US officially back in Paris climate accord, vows action

Despite being impeached twice and charges of leading an insurrection on the Capitol Hill - Donald Trump still remains the favourite of republicans. More than 50% of the republican voters want him back in the White House. WION's Palki Sharma tells you how.

Gravitas: More than 50% of the Republicans will vote for Trump

A casino where celebrities including Hulk Hogan and Keith Richards hung out and was formerly owned by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;was demolished on Wednesday in Atlantic City.

The demolition which was done using 3,000 sticks of dynamite reduced the Trump Plaza Hotel and Casino to a pile of rubble in a few seconds.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

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This is the moment Trump Plaza, the first casino Donald Trump ever built and a faded vestige of Atlantic City’s glamorous past, came crashing down in a cloud of dirt, dust and noise. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PoliticIsDirty?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PoliticIsDirty</a> <a href="https://t.co/R8xTv25s7w">pic.twitter.com/R8xTv25s7w</a>
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A number of loud explosions were heard after the detonator button was hit shortly after 9 am and the gigantic building collapsed in less than 20 seconds.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unsmiling-political-hack-trump-lashes-out-at-mitch-mcconnell-after-impeachment-trial-364141">'Unsmiling political hack': Trump lashes out at Mitch McConnell after impeachment trial</a>

The building was opened in 1984 and was one of the first of the many properties owned by Trump in the country's coastal gambling town.&nbsp;

It was Trump's first of the many properties in the Atlantic City and was closed since 2014 post which it has undergone little to no maintenance.&nbsp;

The building's exterior had crumbled due to several storms and in mid-June, the city's Mayor Marty Small ordered the structure's demolition, calling it a danger to residents.&nbsp;

Since 2016, the building was owned by billionaire investor Carl Icahn.

In 2014, Trump had filed a lawsuit urging his name to be removed from the two-building complex, insisting that Trump's name on it harms the former president's brand.&nbsp;

He once owned up to four casinos in the gambling city with the Trump World's Fair and the Trump Taj Mahal closed in 1999 and 2016 respectively, while the Trump Marina sold by creditors in 2011.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

A casino where celebrities including Hulk Hogan and Keith Richards hung out and was formerly owned by Donald Trump was demolished on Wednesday in Atlantic City. The demolition which was done using 3,000 sticks of dynamite reduced the Trump Plaza Hotel and Casino to a pile of rubble in a few seconds.

A casino where celebrities including Hulk Hogan and Keith Richards hung out and was formerly owned by Donald Trump was demolished on Wednesday in Atlantic City. The demolition which was done using 3,000 sticks of dynamite reduced the Trump Plaza Hotel and Casino to a pile of rubble in a few seconds. Watch | This is the moment Trump Plaza, the first casino Donald Trump ever built and a faded vestige of Atlantic City’s glamorous past, came crashing down in a cloud of dirt, dust and noise. #PoliticIsDirty pic.twitter.com/R8xTv25s7w — DrJohnJack Spirro (/) (@DSpirro) February 17, 2021 × A number of loud explosions were heard after the detonator button was hit shortly after 9 am and the gigantic building collapsed in less than 20 seconds. Also read | 'Unsmiling political hack': Trump lashes out at Mitch McConnell after impeachment trial The building was opened in 1984 and was one of the first of the many properties owned by Trump in the country's coastal gambling town. It was Trump's first of the many properties in the Atlantic City and was closed since 2014 post which it has undergone little to no maintenance. The building's exterior had crumbled due to several storms and in mid-June, the city's Mayor Marty Small ordered the structure's demolition, calling it a danger to residents. Since 2016, the building was owned by billionaire investor Carl Icahn. In 2014, Trump had filed a lawsuit urging his name to be removed from the two-building complex, insisting that Trump's name on it harms the former president's brand. He once owned up to four casinos in the gambling city with the Trump World's Fair and the Trump Taj Mahal closed in 1999 and 2016 respectively, while the Trump Marina sold by creditors in 2011.

Casino formerly owned by Donald Trump demolished

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has announced that the United States will pay $200 million in WHO contribution by the end of February after reversing Donald Trump's plan to withdraw. Blinken said the US would also "provide significant financial support" to Covax, a global plan to distribute vaccines to the poorest nations.

Antony Blinken says US will pay $200 million in WHO contribution

US President Joe Biden's immigration bill will be unveiled on Thursday to begin its legislative process. The said bill aims to create a path to citizenship for 11 million undocumented immigrants who can prove they were in the United States on January 1, 2021.

Two Democratic legislators, California Congresswoman Linda Sanchez and New Jersey Senator Bob Menendez, will present the initiative in the House of Representatives and the Senate, respectively.

The legislation will benefit the so-called Dreamers, people who were brought to the United States illegally as children and grew up there.

The bill will also replace the term "alien," used to refer to foreigners in immigration legislation, with "non-citizen" "to better reflect the president's values on immigration".

Then-president Barack Obama issued an executive order in 2012 which offered protection for Dreamers at renewable two-year periods, including authorisation to work.&nbsp;

His successor Donald Trump attempted to end the programme in 2017 as part of his crackdown on all kinds of immigration.

The case ended up in the US Supreme Court, which ruled that the Trump administration had not followed proper administrative procedures to end the policy, although the Department of Homeland Security reinstated it only partially.

People benefiting from Temporary Protected Status (TPS), which prevents the deportation of citizens from countries affected by natural disasters or conflict, and farmworkers who can show a history of employment in the United States will also be able to get permanent residence.

Since coming to power, Biden has announced a push to reform immigration and roll back his predecessor's hardline policies, including with the creation of a special task force to reunite families separated by Trump's "zero tolerance" border policy towards undocumented immigrants.

Starting this week, he will begin to dismantle the controversial "stay in Mexico" programme, which forced tens of thousands of asylum seekers to remain at the border pending resolution of their cases.

The Trump administration had passed more than 400 executive orders to curb immigration and punish the undocumented.

US President Joe Biden's immigration bill will be unveiled on Thursday to begin its legislative process. The said bill aims to create a path to citizenship for 11 million undocumented immigrants who can prove they were in the United States on January 1, 2021.

US President Joe Biden's immigration bill will be unveiled on Thursday to begin its legislative process. The said bill aims to create a path to citizenship for 11 million undocumented immigrants who can prove they were in the United States on January 1, 2021. Two Democratic legislators, California Congresswoman Linda Sanchez and New Jersey Senator Bob Menendez, will present the initiative in the House of Representatives and the Senate, respectively. The legislation will benefit the so-called Dreamers, people who were brought to the United States illegally as children and grew up there. The bill will also replace the term "alien," used to refer to foreigners in immigration legislation, with "non-citizen" "to better reflect the president's values on immigration". Then-president Barack Obama issued an executive order in 2012 which offered protection for Dreamers at renewable two-year periods, including authorisation to work. His successor Donald Trump attempted to end the programme in 2017 as part of his crackdown on all kinds of immigration. The case ended up in the US Supreme Court, which ruled that the Trump administration had not followed proper administrative procedures to end the policy, although the Department of Homeland Security reinstated it only partially. People benefiting from Temporary Protected Status (TPS), which prevents the deportation of citizens from countries affected by natural disasters or conflict, and farmworkers who can show a history of employment in the United States will also be able to get permanent residence. Since coming to power, Biden has announced a push to reform immigration and roll back his predecessor's hardline policies, including with the creation of a special task force to reunite families separated by Trump's "zero tolerance" border policy towards undocumented immigrants. Starting this week, he will begin to dismantle the controversial "stay in Mexico" programme, which forced tens of thousands of asylum seekers to remain at the border pending resolution of their cases. The Trump administration had passed more than 400 executive orders to curb immigration and punish the undocumented.

Biden's US immigration reform bill to be unveiled on Thursday

While the former reality TV star <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a> has faced immense criticism, several allegations and two impeachment trials, turns out he is still the number one choice for the US election 2024.

A recent poll conducted by Politico-Morning Consult revealed that Trump's popularity within the Republican Party has not decreased even after impeachment trials.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unsmiling-political-hack-trump-lashes-out-at-mitch-mcconnell-after-impeachment-trial-364141">'Unsmiling political hack': Trump lashes out at Mitch McConnell</a>

As per the poll, which was released three days after Trump's acquittal in his second impeachment trial, 59 per cent of Republicans said they would happily support the former US President to play a prominent role in their Republican Party.

Further, 54 per cent of Republicans said they would like to support Trump in a hypothetical 2024 presidential primary election. This number is the same as the amount of Republicans who wanted to show support to the defeated leader back in November. However, the number had taken a dip after the Capitol riot that took place on January 06 and were organised by Trump's supporters.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/republican-accused-of-joining-devils-army-for-voting-to-impeach-donald-trump-364108" hreflang="en">Republican accused of joining 'devil's army' for voting to impeach Donald Trump</a>

Till now, Trump has not given a clear message about whether or not he would be returning for the presidential elections in 2024. However, it was being assumed that his chances of being the favoured candidate would have taken a dip within his party. This poll has shown otherwise.

Surprisingly, after Trump's acquittal, the number of people in the party who think he should play a major role in the Republican party has increased by 18 per cent.

It was also observed that before the trials, more Republicans thought that Trump was personally responsible for the Capitol riots.

Between January 06 and 07, 76 per cent of Republicans thought it was rioters fault and 41 per cent believed Trump was responsible too. However, between February 14 and 15, the figures changed and only 27 per cent of Republicans believed that Trump had a hand in the Capitol riots and 85 per cent of party members blamed the rioters.&nbsp;

While the former reality TV star Donald Trump has faced immense criticism, several allegations and two impeachment trials, turns out he is still the number one choice for the US election 2024.

While the former reality TV star Donald Trump has faced immense criticism, several allegations and two impeachment trials, turns out he is still the number one choice for the US election 2024. A recent poll conducted by Politico-Morning Consult revealed that Trump's popularity within the Republican Party has not decreased even after impeachment trials. Also read| 'Unsmiling political hack': Trump lashes out at Mitch McConnell As per the poll, which was released three days after Trump's acquittal in his second impeachment trial, 59 per cent of Republicans said they would happily support the former US President to play a prominent role in their Republican Party. Further, 54 per cent of Republicans said they would like to support Trump in a hypothetical 2024 presidential primary election. This number is the same as the amount of Republicans who wanted to show support to the defeated leader back in November. However, the number had taken a dip after the Capitol riot that took place on January 06 and were organised by Trump's supporters. Also read| Republican accused of joining 'devil's army' for voting to impeach Donald Trump Till now, Trump has not given a clear message about whether or not he would be returning for the presidential elections in 2024. However, it was being assumed that his chances of being the favoured candidate would have taken a dip within his party. This poll has shown otherwise. Surprisingly, after Trump's acquittal, the number of people in the party who think he should play a major role in the Republican party has increased by 18 per cent. It was also observed that before the trials, more Republicans thought that Trump was personally responsible for the Capitol riots. Between January 06 and 07, 76 per cent of Republicans thought it was rioters fault and 41 per cent believed Trump was responsible too. However, between February 14 and 15, the figures changed and only 27 per cent of Republicans believed that Trump had a hand in the Capitol riots and 85 per cent of party members blamed the rioters.

Donald Trump preferred candidate for 2024 presidential election: Poll

The United States will pay more than $200 million to the World Health Organization by the end of the month after reversing Donald Trump's plan to withdraw, Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Wednesday.&nbsp;

The sum amounts to the commitments the United States had made to the global health body, to which it has been the largest donor.&nbsp;

"This is a key step forward in fulfilling our financial obligations as a WHO member and it reflects our renewed commitment to ensuring the WHO has the support it needs to lead the global response to the pandemic," Blinken told a virtual UN Security Council session on Covid-19.&nbsp;

"The United States will work as a partner to address global challenges. This pandemic is one of those challenges and gives us an opportunity not only to get through the current crisis, but also to become more prepared and more resilient for the future."&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

Blinken said the United States would also 'provide significant financial support' to Covax, a global plan to distribute vaccines to the poorest nations.&nbsp;

Trump, who faced criticism for his handling of Covid in the United States, which has suffered the highest death toll of any nation, announced a pullout from the World Health Organization, saying it was beholden to China and did not do enough to stop the pandemic.&nbsp;

President Joe Biden immediately reversed the decision although his administration has also pressed China to be more forthcoming to a WHO team investigating the origins of the devastating virus.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/republican-accused-of-joining-devils-army-for-voting-to-impeach-donald-trump-364108">Republican accused of joining 'devil's army' for voting to impeach Donald Trump</a>

"All countries must make available all data from the earliest days of any outbreak," Blinken said.&nbsp;

"And going forward, all countries should participate in a transparent and robust process for preventing and responding to health emergencies so the world learns as much as possible, as soon as possible."&nbsp;

The United States will pay more than $200 million to the World Health Organization by the end of the month after reversing Donald Trump's plan to withdraw, Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Wednesday.

The United States will pay more than $200 million to the World Health Organization by the end of the month after reversing Donald Trump's plan to withdraw, Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Wednesday. The sum amounts to the commitments the United States had made to the global health body, to which it has been the largest donor. "This is a key step forward in fulfilling our financial obligations as a WHO member and it reflects our renewed commitment to ensuring the WHO has the support it needs to lead the global response to the pandemic," Blinken told a virtual UN Security Council session on Covid-19. "The United States will work as a partner to address global challenges. This pandemic is one of those challenges and gives us an opportunity not only to get through the current crisis, but also to become more prepared and more resilient for the future." × Blinken said the United States would also 'provide significant financial support' to Covax, a global plan to distribute vaccines to the poorest nations. Trump, who faced criticism for his handling of Covid in the United States, which has suffered the highest death toll of any nation, announced a pullout from the World Health Organization, saying it was beholden to China and did not do enough to stop the pandemic. President Joe Biden immediately reversed the decision although his administration has also pressed China to be more forthcoming to a WHO team investigating the origins of the devastating virus. Also Read: Republican accused of joining 'devil's army' for voting to impeach Donald Trump "All countries must make available all data from the earliest days of any outbreak," Blinken said. "And going forward, all countries should participate in a transparent and robust process for preventing and responding to health emergencies so the world learns as much as possible, as soon as possible."

US to pay $200 million in WHO obligations: Blinken

A third consecutive night of internet blackout was seen in Myanmar as protests continued against the military coup in the country. Meanwhile, Donald Trump, who has recently been acquitted from impeachment, slammed Republican Mitch McConnell calling him a "dour, sullen, and unsmiling political hack".

Click on headlines to read more

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-military-blocks-internet-for-third-consecutive-night-amid-protests-364140">Myanmar military blocks internet for third consecutive night amid protests</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/02/17/183071-myanmar1.jpg?itok=D50nZHYU" />

Myanmar experienced another night of internet blackout as the net continued to be shut for the third consecutive day on Wednesday as protests continued against the military junta's coup.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unsmiling-political-hack-trump-lashes-out-at-mitch-mcconnell-after-impeachment-trial-364141">'Unsmiling political hack': Trump lashes out at Mitch McConnell after impeachment trial</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2018/09/12/13562-donaldtrump-20161114045351.jpg?itok=aEPu_9ZI" />

The former US President Donald Trump, who has recently been acquitted in his second impeachment trial, has turned against the Senate minority leader, Mitch McConnell.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nearly-4000-amazon-employees-given-wrong-covid-test-result-364146">Nearly 4,000 Amazon employees given wrong COVID test result</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/02/17/183074-covid-19-test-results-amazon.jpg?itok=A_Qea1qO" />

Nearly 4,000 Amazon employees were given fake positive results for the deadly coronavirus and were asked to self-isolate in the UK.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ghislaine-maxwell-physically-abused-in-jail-lawyer-364157">Ghislaine Maxwell 'physically abused' in jail: Lawyer</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/07/31/152425-untitled-design-46.jpg?itok=HSbLcsqJ" />

Ghislaine Maxwell, accused of sex trafficking, was "physically abused" by a correctional officer in a routine check in jail, her lawyer claimed on Tuesday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-lawmakers-approve-bill-to-battle-islamist-extremism-364127">French lawmakers approve bill to battle Islamist extremism</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/02/16/183060-french-president-emmanuel-macron.jpg?itok=2uFoYXfg" />

&nbsp;

A third consecutive night of internet blackout was seen in Myanmar as protests continued against the military coup in the country. Meanwhile, Donald Trump, who has recently been acquitted from impeachment, slammed Republican Mitch McConnell calling him a "dour, sullen, and unsmiling political hack".

A third consecutive night of internet blackout was seen in Myanmar as protests continued against the military coup in the country. Meanwhile, Donald Trump, who has recently been acquitted from impeachment, slammed Republican Mitch McConnell calling him a "dour, sullen, and unsmiling political hack". Click on headlines to read more Myanmar military blocks internet for third consecutive night amid protests Myanmar experienced another night of internet blackout as the net continued to be shut for the third consecutive day on Wednesday as protests continued against the military junta's coup. 'Unsmiling political hack': Trump lashes out at Mitch McConnell after impeachment trial The former US President Donald Trump, who has recently been acquitted in his second impeachment trial, has turned against the Senate minority leader, Mitch McConnell. Nearly 4,000 Amazon employees given wrong COVID test result Nearly 4,000 Amazon employees were given fake positive results for the deadly coronavirus and were asked to self-isolate in the UK. Ghislaine Maxwell 'physically abused' in jail: Lawyer Ghislaine Maxwell, accused of sex trafficking, was "physically abused" by a correctional officer in a routine check in jail, her lawyer claimed on Tuesday. French lawmakers approve bill to battle Islamist extremism

Morning news brief: Myanmar coup updates, latest on Trump, and more

The Supreme Leader of Iran, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei demanded “action, not words” from the United States, while referring to the prospect of renewing 2015’s nuclear deal.

Iran has set next week as the deadline for US President Biden to reverse sanctions that were imposed by Donald Trump. If the US fails to meet the deadline, Iran will begin taking drastic steps that violate the deal, including a ban on short-notice inspections by UN nuclear watchdog.

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"We have heard many nice words and promises which in practice have been broken and opposite actions have been taken. Words and promises are no good. This time (we want) only action from the other side, and we will also act," Khamenei said during a televised speech.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/twitter-suspends-account-linked-to-khameneis-website-clarifies-its-fake-and-not-his-358646" hreflang="en">Twitter suspends account linked to Khamenei's website, clarifies it's fake and not his</a>

Biden intends to revive the pact as part of which Iran curbed its nuclear programme in exchange for lifting sanctions. Seen as a major achievement for Obama-era, the deal was abandoned by Trump in 2018.

Both Iran and the US agree that the deal should be revived, but remain at odds over how to begin the process.&nbsp; Iran has said that the US must first lift sanctions from the Trump era, while the US expects Tehran to first return to the deal.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/drone-on-trump-playing-golf-irans-ayatollah-ali-khamenei-vows-soleimani-revenge-358548" hreflang="en">Drone on Trump playing golf? Iran's Ayatollah Ali Khamenei vows Soleimani revenge</a>

The country has been violating the deal since the sanctions were reimposed. Over the last few months, Iran has further breached the deal’s restrictions. Starting February 23, the country intends to end snap inspections that are undertaken by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). An agreement called “Additional Protocol” mandates the inspections.

The Supreme Leader of Iran, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei demanded “action, not words” from the United States, while referring to the prospect of renewing 2015’s nuclear deal.

The Supreme Leader of Iran, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei demanded “action, not words” from the United States, while referring to the prospect of renewing 2015’s nuclear deal. Iran has set next week as the deadline for US President Biden to reverse sanctions that were imposed by Donald Trump. If the US fails to meet the deadline, Iran will begin taking drastic steps that violate the deal, including a ban on short-notice inspections by UN nuclear watchdog. "We have heard many nice words and promises which in practice have been broken and opposite actions have been taken. Words and promises are no good. This time (we want) only action from the other side, and we will also act," Khamenei said during a televised speech. Also read: Twitter suspends account linked to Khamenei's website, clarifies it's fake and not his Biden intends to revive the pact as part of which Iran curbed its nuclear programme in exchange for lifting sanctions. Seen as a major achievement for Obama-era, the deal was abandoned by Trump in 2018. Both Iran and the US agree that the deal should be revived, but remain at odds over how to begin the process. Iran has said that the US must first lift sanctions from the Trump era, while the US expects Tehran to first return to the deal. Also read: Drone on Trump playing golf? Iran's Ayatollah Ali Khamenei vows Soleimani revenge The country has been violating the deal since the sanctions were reimposed. Over the last few months, Iran has further breached the deal’s restrictions. Starting February 23, the country intends to end snap inspections that are undertaken by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). An agreement called “Additional Protocol” mandates the inspections.

To revive nuclear deal, Iran's Khamenei demands 'action, not words' from Biden

A day after the social networking app Parler came back online on the internet, its interim CEO has invited Donald Trump and the US President Joe Biden to join the world of Parler.

During an interview with the local news network Fox News, Parler's new interim CEO, Mark Meckler, said he would welcome the former US President and the current President to create accounts on Parler.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/social-networking-app-parler-relaunches-after-capitol-riot-controversy-363922">Social networking app Parler relaunches after Capitol riot controversy</a>

"What Parler’s really about is being a public square, and a public square is where anybody can come, they can say what they want as long as it’s legal. And Donald Trump hasn’t said anything illegal, as far as I’m aware. He certainly didn’t on Twitter, didn’t on Facebook or any of the other places that he was banned," Meckler said.

This statement has caught the attention not only because Trump and Biden are known rivals, with Trump often being looked at as the sore loser, but also because Trump was one of the main reason behind Parler's temporary suspension.

Parler is a social networking platform that was taken off the internet due to its alleged involvement in the Capitol riots that took place on January 06.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/hacker-reveals-massive-data-leak-in-social-networking-app-parler-after-us-capitol-siege-356183">Hacker reveals massive data leak in social networking app Parler after US Capitol siege</a>

It was alleged that Parler played the main role and acted as a source of communication for the supporters of Trump who then carried out the riots in the US Capitol building.

Following the allegation, Apple and Google had pulled the app from their download platforms and Amazon's web hosting, too, cut ties with the social networking app.

"Parler was built to offer a social media platform that protects free speech and values privacy and civil discourse,"&nbsp;Meckler issued a statement.

A day after the social networking app Parler came back online on the internet, its interim CEO has invited Donald Trump and the US President Joe Biden to join the world of Parler.

A day after the social networking app Parler came back online on the internet, its interim CEO has invited Donald Trump and the US President Joe Biden to join the world of Parler. During an interview with the local news network Fox News, Parler's new interim CEO, Mark Meckler, said he would welcome the former US President and the current President to create accounts on Parler. Also read| Social networking app Parler relaunches after Capitol riot controversy "What Parler’s really about is being a public square, and a public square is where anybody can come, they can say what they want as long as it’s legal. And Donald Trump hasn’t said anything illegal, as far as I’m aware. He certainly didn’t on Twitter, didn’t on Facebook or any of the other places that he was banned," Meckler said. This statement has caught the attention not only because Trump and Biden are known rivals, with Trump often being looked at as the sore loser, but also because Trump was one of the main reason behind Parler's temporary suspension. Parler is a social networking platform that was taken off the internet due to its alleged involvement in the Capitol riots that took place on January 06. Also read| Hacker reveals massive data leak in social networking app Parler after US Capitol siege It was alleged that Parler played the main role and acted as a source of communication for the supporters of Trump who then carried out the riots in the US Capitol building. Following the allegation, Apple and Google had pulled the app from their download platforms and Amazon's web hosting, too, cut ties with the social networking app. "Parler was built to offer a social media platform that protects free speech and values privacy and civil discourse," Meckler issued a statement.

Parler's interim CEO invites Trump and Biden for 'civil discourse'

In a letter to Democratic colleagues, Pelosi said the House will also put forth supplemental spending to boost security at the Capitol.

Can a 9/11-style commission examine Capitol riots?

The much-controversial social networking app, Parler, has relaunched after a tough few weeks following the Capitol riots.

Parler app was forced to shut down as it was alleged the supporters of Donald Trump used this app to organise the violent Capitol riot.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/democrats-demand-a-911-style-commission-on-deadly-capitol-riot-363902">WATCH</a>|

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/democrats-demand-a-911-style-commission-on-deadly-capitol-riot-363902/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

It has often described itself as a "free speech social network" but came under scrutiny recently. Following the allegation, Apple and Google had pulled the app from their download platforms and Amazon's web hosting, too, cut ties with the social networking app.

"Parler was built to offer a social media platform that protects free speech and values privacy and civil discourse," interim CEO Mark Meckler issued a statement.

While the former President Donald Trump has been acquitted, the app is still facing the brunt of its critics and locals. However, the company is determined to return despite all the criticism.&nbsp;

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/hello-world-is-this-thing-on-parlers-website-is-back-online-after-finding-new-host-357419">'Hello world, is this thing on?': Parler's website is back online after finding new host</a>

The company heads believe the app will return despite several tries of it being taken offline "by those who desire to silence tens of millions of Americans."

For now, it has been reported that the app is back for the existing users who already have the app downloaded. It will be made available for new downloads from next week.

"Parler is being run by an experienced team and is here to stay. We will thrive as the premier social media platform dedicated to free speech, privacy and civil dialogue," Meckler said.

His statement has come after Parler fired its then chief executive John Matze immediately after the US Capitol riots.

The much-controversial social networking app, Parler, has relaunched after a tough few weeks following the Capitol riots. Parler app was forced to shut down as it was alleged the supporters of Donald Trump used this app to organise the violent Capitol riot.

The much-controversial social networking app, Parler, has relaunched after a tough few weeks following the Capitol riots. Parler app was forced to shut down as it was alleged the supporters of Donald Trump used this app to organise the violent Capitol riot. WATCH| It has often described itself as a "free speech social network" but came under scrutiny recently. Following the allegation, Apple and Google had pulled the app from their download platforms and Amazon's web hosting, too, cut ties with the social networking app. "Parler was built to offer a social media platform that protects free speech and values privacy and civil discourse," interim CEO Mark Meckler issued a statement. While the former President Donald Trump has been acquitted, the app is still facing the brunt of its critics and locals. However, the company is determined to return despite all the criticism. Also read| 'Hello world, is this thing on?': Parler's website is back online after finding new host The company heads believe the app will return despite several tries of it being taken offline "by those who desire to silence tens of millions of Americans." For now, it has been reported that the app is back for the existing users who already have the app downloaded. It will be made available for new downloads from next week. "Parler is being run by an experienced team and is here to stay. We will thrive as the premier social media platform dedicated to free speech, privacy and civil dialogue," Meckler said. His statement has come after Parler fired its then chief executive John Matze immediately after the US Capitol riots.

Social networking app Parler relaunches after Capitol riot controversy

The former US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump's</a> troubles are far from over, even after his acquittal in the impeachment trial, as his opposition is now urging the creation of an independent 9/11-style Commission to look into the Capitol riots.

Trump's known enemy and the Democratic Speaker of the House of Representatives, Nancy Pelosi, on Monday, called for the creation of a 9/11-style Commission to look into the Capitol riots that took place on January 06 in Washington by Trump's supporters.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/toings-froings-and-kerfuffle-uk-pm-boris-johnson-reacts-to-trumps-impeachment-trial-363685" hreflang="en">'Toings, froings and kerfuffle': UK PM Boris Johnson reacts to Trump's impeachment trial</a>

Pelosi said she would move to establish an "outside, independent 9/11 type Commission" to investigate the Capitol riots.

This Commission would "investigate and report on the facts and causes relating to January 6, 2021, domestic terrorist attack upon the United States Capitol Complex," Pelosi explained in a statement.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/democrats-demand-a-911-style-commission-on-deadly-capitol-riot-363902">WATCH</a>|

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/democrats-demand-a-911-style-commission-on-deadly-capitol-riot-363902/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

She also hoped that this Commission will look into peaceful transfer of power — something that Trump struggled with after his historic defeat in the US election 2020.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/president-biden-reacts-on-trumps-acquittal-says-democracy-is-fragile-363495" hreflang="en">President Biden reacts on Trump's acquittal, says 'democracy is fragile'</a>

It would also look into the preparedness and response of the Capitol Police and a few other branches of law enforcement, as alleged lack of effort on the part of Capitol Police was also highly criticised after the deadly January 06 attack.

Turns out, Pelosi is not the only one who wants such a Commission to investigate the matter. Several Republicans have also expressed their desire to have an independent probe into this deadly riot.

"We need a 9/11 commission to find out what happened to make sure it never happens again," said Republican Senator Lindsey Graham from South Carolina.

The former US President Donald Trump's troubles are far from over, even after his acquittal in the impeachment trial, as his opposition is now urging the creation of an independent 9/11-style Commission to look into the Capitol riots.

The former US President Donald Trump's troubles are far from over, even after his acquittal in the impeachment trial, as his opposition is now urging the creation of an independent 9/11-style Commission to look into the Capitol riots. Trump's known enemy and the Democratic Speaker of the House of Representatives, Nancy Pelosi, on Monday, called for the creation of a 9/11-style Commission to look into the Capitol riots that took place on January 06 in Washington by Trump's supporters. Also read| 'Toings, froings and kerfuffle': UK PM Boris Johnson reacts to Trump's impeachment trial Pelosi said she would move to establish an "outside, independent 9/11 type Commission" to investigate the Capitol riots. This Commission would "investigate and report on the facts and causes relating to January 6, 2021, domestic terrorist attack upon the United States Capitol Complex," Pelosi explained in a statement. WATCH| She also hoped that this Commission will look into peaceful transfer of power — something that Trump struggled with after his historic defeat in the US election 2020. Also read| President Biden reacts on Trump's acquittal, says 'democracy is fragile' It would also look into the preparedness and response of the Capitol Police and a few other branches of law enforcement, as alleged lack of effort on the part of Capitol Police was also highly criticised after the deadly January 06 attack. Turns out, Pelosi is not the only one who wants such a Commission to investigate the matter. Several Republicans have also expressed their desire to have an independent probe into this deadly riot. "We need a 9/11 commission to find out what happened to make sure it never happens again," said Republican Senator Lindsey Graham from South Carolina.

'Independent, 9/11-style commission' needed to investigate Trump and Capitol riots: Pelosi

The US opposition is demanding an independent, 9/11 style Commission to investigate&nbsp;the former US President&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump's</a>&nbsp;role in the&nbsp;Capitol riots. Meanwhile, Myanmar&nbsp;locals are still at war with the army against the military coup. An earthquake of 6.2 magnitude&nbsp;struck off Vanuatu's capital Port Vila.

Click on headlines to read more

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/independent-911-style-commission-needed-to-investigate-trump-and-capitol-riots-pelosi-363900" hreflang="en">'Independent, 9/11-style commission' needed to investigate Trump &amp; riot: Pelosi</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2019/01/04/79661-untitled-design-42.jpg?itok=L_-e8jq0" />

Nancy Pelosi, on Monday, called for the creation of a 9/11-style Commission to look into the Capitol riots that took place on January 06 in Washington by Trump's supporters.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-military-chokes-internet-for-second-consecutive-night-amid-protests-363909" hreflang="en">Myanmar military chokes internet for second consecutive night amid protests</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/02/16/182908-general1.jpg?itok=xYkXvsH6" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/under-new-law-myanmar-protesters-to-face-up-to-20-years-in-prison-363806">Myanmar&nbsp;</a>military generals on Tuesday choked the internet for the second consecutive night as protesters continued their demonstrations as extra troops were deployed around the country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-gives-emergency-use-approval-to-serum-institute-of-indias-astrazeneca-vaccine-363901">WHO gives emergency use approval to Serum Institute's AstraZeneca vaccine</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/01/30/180678-astrazeneca-oxford-vaccine.jpg?itok=UybXh7Bw" />

The World Health Organization(WHO) granted two versions of the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wont-use-astrazeneca-covid-vaccine-for-elderly-says-south-korea-363769">&nbsp;AstraZeneca-Oxford</a>&nbsp;COVID-19 vaccine for emergency use produced by AstraZeneca-SKBio(Republic of Korea) and the Serum Institute of India(SII).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/strong-62-magnitude-quake-rocks-vanuatu-capital-port-vila-in-south-pacific-363899">Strong 6.2-magnitude quake rocks Vanuatu capital Port Vila in South Pacific</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2018/09/12/55201-earthquake_0.jpg?itok=aZgKk9IX" />

Just days after a 7.7 magnitude earthquake hit the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-issues-evacuation-alert-in-coastal-areas-after-small-tsunami-in-south-pacific-362775">South Pacific</a>, a shallow 6.2-magnitude quake struck off Vanuatu's capital Port Vila.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-france-set-to-table-anti-extremism-bill-363894" hreflang="en">Gravitas : France set to table anti-extremism bill</a></div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-france-set-to-table-anti-extremism-bill-363894/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The US opposition is demanding an independent, 9/11 style Commission to investigate the former US President Donald Trump's role in the Capitol riots. Meanwhile, Myanmar locals are still at war with the army against the military coup.

The US opposition is demanding an independent, 9/11 style Commission to investigate the former US President Donald Trump's role in the Capitol riots. Meanwhile, Myanmar locals are still at war with the army against the military coup. An earthquake of 6.2 magnitude struck off Vanuatu's capital Port Vila. Click on headlines to read more 'Independent, 9/11-style commission' needed to investigate Trump & riot: Pelosi Nancy Pelosi, on Monday, called for the creation of a 9/11-style Commission to look into the Capitol riots that took place on January 06 in Washington by Trump's supporters. Myanmar military chokes internet for second consecutive night amid protests Myanmar military generals on Tuesday choked the internet for the second consecutive night as protesters continued their demonstrations as extra troops were deployed around the country. WHO gives emergency use approval to Serum Institute's AstraZeneca vaccine The World Health Organization(WHO) granted two versions of the AstraZeneca-Oxford COVID-19 vaccine for emergency use produced by AstraZeneca-SKBio(Republic of Korea) and the Serum Institute of India(SII). Strong 6.2-magnitude quake rocks Vanuatu capital Port Vila in South Pacific Just days after a 7.7 magnitude earthquake hit the South Pacific, a shallow 6.2-magnitude quake struck off Vanuatu's capital Port Vila. Gravitas : France set to table anti-extremism bill

Morning news brief: Another investigation for Capitol riots, Myanmar internet ban, and more

Democrats demand a 9/11-style commission on deadly Capitol riot

Donald trump impeachment trial was unique, it was his second impeachment and the trial was convened after his exit from office. US senate must have acquitted but trump trouble is far from over. Both republican and democrats are proposing for fresh enquiry.

Republican and Democrats are proposing for fresh enquiry in case of Donald Trump

Talking about the impeachment trial of the former US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>, the UK Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/boris-johnson">Boris Johnson</a> characterised the whole incident as "toings and froings and all the kerfuffle".

In an interview with a US network, CBS, the UK PM, on Sunday, talked about how the horrifying US Capitol riots that took place on January 06.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/president-biden-reacts-on-trumps-acquittal-says-democracy-is-fragile-363495" hreflang="en">President Biden reacts on Trump's acquittal, says 'democracy is fragile'</a>

Johnson condemned the Capitol attack but showed confidence in American democracy.

"The clear message that we get from the proceedings in America is that after all the toings and froings and all the kerfuffle, American democracy is strong and the American constitution is strong and robust," he said.

However, Johnson's message has been overshadowed by the newly-elected US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">Joe Biden's</a> decreasing faith in American democracy. Urging Americans to defend the democracy, Biden said, "We must be ever vigilant … each of us has a duty and responsibility as Americans, and especially as leaders, to defend the truth and to defeat the lies."

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/for-trump-an-escape-not-an-exoneration-363539" hreflang="en">For Trump, an escape, not an exoneration</a>

These messages have come after the US Senate acquitted Trump for the second time in his impeachment trials.

Trump was accused of inciting violence in the Capitol riots by motivating his supporters to go and "fight like hell" in the US Capitol on January 06 when Biden's win against Trump in the US elections was being conformed.

His supporters marched to the Capitol and destroyed federal property and the idea of democracy while chanting "Hang Mike Pence" and aiming to attack all senators supporting Biden, and opposing Trump.

Talking about the impeachment trial of the former US President Donald Trump, the UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson characterised the whole incident as "toings and froings and all the kerfuffle".

Talking about the impeachment trial of the former US President Donald Trump, the UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson characterised the whole incident as "toings and froings and all the kerfuffle". In an interview with a US network, CBS, the UK PM, on Sunday, talked about how the horrifying US Capitol riots that took place on January 06. Also read| President Biden reacts on Trump's acquittal, says 'democracy is fragile' Johnson condemned the Capitol attack but showed confidence in American democracy. "The clear message that we get from the proceedings in America is that after all the toings and froings and all the kerfuffle, American democracy is strong and the American constitution is strong and robust," he said. However, Johnson's message has been overshadowed by the newly-elected US President Joe Biden's decreasing faith in American democracy. Urging Americans to defend the democracy, Biden said, "We must be ever vigilant … each of us has a duty and responsibility as Americans, and especially as leaders, to defend the truth and to defeat the lies." Also read| For Trump, an escape, not an exoneration These messages have come after the US Senate acquitted Trump for the second time in his impeachment trials. Trump was accused of inciting violence in the Capitol riots by motivating his supporters to go and "fight like hell" in the US Capitol on January 06 when Biden's win against Trump in the US elections was being conformed. His supporters marched to the Capitol and destroyed federal property and the idea of democracy while chanting "Hang Mike Pence" and aiming to attack all senators supporting Biden, and opposing Trump.

'Toings, froings and kerfuffle': UK PM Boris Johnson reacts to Trump's impeachment trial

Former President of the U.S Donald Trump's future in politics remains uncertain in future. 57 senators voted to convict him including seven from his own Republican party.

Future of Donald Trump in U.S politics remains uncertain

As Donald Trump's impeachment trial came to an end, there has been a renewed focus on threats from white supremacists and other groups who stormed the US Capitol last month.

US Capitol Riots: Domestic groups charged for capitol hill violence

Myanmar army has once again blocked internet services in the country while the troops rally on streets to break several ongoing protests demanding an immediate release of Aung San Suu Kyi.&nbsp;On the other hand, Guinea is preparing to battle another force, an Ebola epidemic, after three deaths were reported from the deadly virus.

Click on headlines to read more

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/myanmar-military-blocks-internet-as-troops-fire-to-break-up-protest-363635" hreflang="en">Myanmar military blocks internet as troops fire to break up protest</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/02/15/182739-myanmar1.jpg?itok=KX4yKKTN" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-embassy-in-myanmar-warns-of-troop-movements-cautions-its-citizens-363614">Myanmar's</a>&nbsp;military junta on Monday cut&nbsp;internet service&nbsp;and deployed troops around the country amid large scale protests as security forces fired to disperse demonstrations in the country's north.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-confirms-first-case-of-uk-variant-amid-auckland-lockdown-363640">New Zealand confirms first case of UK variant amid Auckland lockdown</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/02/15/182742-cc1.jpg?itok=iDUPFLO1" />

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern confirmed the highly-contagious&nbsp;strain&nbsp;first found in the UK was detected in Auckland which was put under a lockdown on Sunday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/guinea-declared-ebola-epidemic-after-three-confirmed-deaths-363642">Guinea declares Ebola 'epidemic' after three confirmed deaths</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/02/15/182744-ebola-in-guinea-1.jpg?itok=yRk-iH8o" />

Guinea has declared an 'epidemic' situation as the country has recorded at least three deaths and seven cases of the Ebola virus.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/donald-trump-hints-at-a-political-comeback-363620" hreflang="en">Donald Trump hints at a political comeback</a>

&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/donald-trump-hints-at-a-political-comeback-363620/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indias-has-begun-the-second-phase-of-its-mega-vaccination-campaign-363555">India's has begun the second phase of its mega vaccination campaign</a></div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indias-has-begun-the-second-phase-of-its-mega-vaccination-campaign-363555/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Myanmar army has once again blocked internet services in the country while the troops rally on streets to break several ongoing protests demanding an immediate release of Aung San Suu Kyi.

Myanmar army has once again blocked internet services in the country while the troops rally on streets to break several ongoing protests demanding an immediate release of Aung San Suu Kyi. On the other hand, Guinea is preparing to battle another force, an Ebola epidemic, after three deaths were reported from the deadly virus. Click on headlines to read more Myanmar military blocks internet as troops fire to break up protest Myanmar's military junta on Monday cut internet service and deployed troops around the country amid large scale protests as security forces fired to disperse demonstrations in the country's north. New Zealand confirms first case of UK variant amid Auckland lockdown Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern confirmed the highly-contagious strain first found in the UK was detected in Auckland which was put under a lockdown on Sunday. Guinea declares Ebola 'epidemic' after three confirmed deaths Guinea has declared an 'epidemic' situation as the country has recorded at least three deaths and seven cases of the Ebola virus. Donald Trump hints at a political comeback India's has begun the second phase of its mega vaccination campaign

Morning news brief: Trump's possible return to White House, another epidemic declared, and more

The US Senate reached a deal Saturday that prevented witness testimony in Donald Trump's impeachment trial.

Senators had earlier in the day voted in favour of allowing witnesses in the impeachment trial, threatening to extend the procedure by days or even weeks.

Instead of calling witnesses, the House impeachment managers and Trump's defence team agreed to admit into the record a statement by Republican congresswoman Jamie Herrera Beutler about a phone call in which House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy implored then-President Trump to call off the rioters.

The four hours of final arguments will be split equally between both sides with the House prosecutors going first.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-senate-prolongs-trumps-impeachment-trial-allows-calling-of-witnesses-363447">Also read |US Senate prolongs Trump's impeachment trial, allows calling of witnesses</a>&nbsp;

The agreement cleared the way for the beginning of closing arguments in the trial, and a final vote on whether to convict Trump is now expected later Saturday.

Herrera Beutler, a Republican from Washington state, was one of 10 Republican lawmakers who voted to impeach Trump in the House of Representatives.

In her statement, she said Republican House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy had called Trump while the attack was ongoing and implored him to call off the rioters.

Trump was impeached by the Democratic-controlled House on January 13 for inciting the attack on the US Capitol by his supporters, who were seeking to block congressional certification of Democrat Joe Biden's November 3 election victory.

A conviction in the 100-member Senate -- which is evenly split between Democrats and Republicans -- would require a two-thirds majority and appears highly unlikely after McConnell said he would vote to acquit.

Trump's defence lawyers argued on Friday that the former president bears no responsibility for the attack on Congress and wrapped up their presentation in just three hours.

This followed two days of evidence from Democratic impeachment managers centered around harrowing video footage of the mob assault on the Capitol.

<a href="wionews.com/world/trumps-lawyers-deny-he-incited-capitol-mob-363466">Also read |&nbsp;Trump’s lawyers deny he incited Capitol mob</a>

Trump's defence lawyers called the impeachment unconstitutional and an "act of political vengeance."

The former US president, on January 6, staged a fiery rally near the White House, calling on the crowd to march on Congress, which was in the process of certifying Biden's victory.

The mob then stormed the Capitol, disrupting the certification. Five people, including a police officer and a woman shot during the unrest, died in the mayhem.

(with inputs from agencies)

The US Senate reached a deal Saturday that prevented witness testimony in Donald Trump's impeachment trial. Senators had earlier in the day voted in favour of allowing witnesses in the impeachment trial, threatening to extend the procedure by days or even weeks.

The US Senate reached a deal Saturday that prevented witness testimony in Donald Trump's impeachment trial. Senators had earlier in the day voted in favour of allowing witnesses in the impeachment trial, threatening to extend the procedure by days or even weeks. Instead of calling witnesses, the House impeachment managers and Trump's defence team agreed to admit into the record a statement by Republican congresswoman Jamie Herrera Beutler about a phone call in which House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy implored then-President Trump to call off the rioters. The four hours of final arguments will be split equally between both sides with the House prosecutors going first. Also read |US Senate prolongs Trump's impeachment trial, allows calling of witnesses The agreement cleared the way for the beginning of closing arguments in the trial, and a final vote on whether to convict Trump is now expected later Saturday. Herrera Beutler, a Republican from Washington state, was one of 10 Republican lawmakers who voted to impeach Trump in the House of Representatives. In her statement, she said Republican House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy had called Trump while the attack was ongoing and implored him to call off the rioters. Trump was impeached by the Democratic-controlled House on January 13 for inciting the attack on the US Capitol by his supporters, who were seeking to block congressional certification of Democrat Joe Biden's November 3 election victory. A conviction in the 100-member Senate -- which is evenly split between Democrats and Republicans -- would require a two-thirds majority and appears highly unlikely after McConnell said he would vote to acquit. Trump's defence lawyers argued on Friday that the former president bears no responsibility for the attack on Congress and wrapped up their presentation in just three hours. This followed two days of evidence from Democratic impeachment managers centered around harrowing video footage of the mob assault on the Capitol. Also read | Trump’s lawyers deny he incited Capitol mob Trump's defence lawyers called the impeachment unconstitutional and an "act of political vengeance." The former US president, on January 6, staged a fiery rally near the White House, calling on the crowd to march on Congress, which was in the process of certifying Biden's victory. The mob then stormed the Capitol, disrupting the certification. Five people, including a police officer and a woman shot during the unrest, died in the mayhem. (with inputs from agencies)

US Senate reaches deal, closing arguments begin in Trump impeachment trial

US President Joe Biden has called on Congress to enact "commonsense" gun law reforms. His Sunday statement came after three years after the school shooting in Parkland, Florida.

The Florida shooting had sparked outrage across the US and prompted fresh demands for firearms control.

Biden added he wants Congress to pass laws that would require background checks on all gun sales and ban assault weapons and high-capacity magazines.

"This administration will not wait for the next mass shooting to heed that call," Biden said in a statement marking the Valentine's Day shooting in 2018 that left 17 people dead and brought fresh attention to America's lax gun laws.

"We will take action to end our epidemic of gun violence and make our schools and communities safer."

The confessed school shooter, Nikolas Cruz, who was 19 at the time, was armed with an AR-15-style rifle and fired between 100 and 150 rounds in a rampage that killed 14 students and three adult staff at the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School.

Biden said Congress must also eliminate "immunity for gun manufacturers who knowingly put weapons of war on our streets."

Cruz was able to buy the assault rifle legally, despite having known mental health problems.

Earlier, with Donald Trump in the White House and the Republicans controlling the Senate at the time, legislation approved by the Democrats in the House of Representatives went nowhere.

To this end, Democratic Speaker Nancy Pelosi on Sunday said the House would try again.

US President Joe Biden has called on Congress to enact "commonsense" gun law reforms. His Sunday statement came after three years after the school shooting in Parkland, Florida.

US President Joe Biden has called on Congress to enact "commonsense" gun law reforms. His Sunday statement came after three years after the school shooting in Parkland, Florida. The Florida shooting had sparked outrage across the US and prompted fresh demands for firearms control. Biden added he wants Congress to pass laws that would require background checks on all gun sales and ban assault weapons and high-capacity magazines. "This administration will not wait for the next mass shooting to heed that call," Biden said in a statement marking the Valentine's Day shooting in 2018 that left 17 people dead and brought fresh attention to America's lax gun laws. "We will take action to end our epidemic of gun violence and make our schools and communities safer." The confessed school shooter, Nikolas Cruz, who was 19 at the time, was armed with an AR-15-style rifle and fired between 100 and 150 rounds in a rampage that killed 14 students and three adult staff at the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. Biden said Congress must also eliminate "immunity for gun manufacturers who knowingly put weapons of war on our streets." Cruz was able to buy the assault rifle legally, despite having known mental health problems. Earlier, with Donald Trump in the White House and the Republicans controlling the Senate at the time, legislation approved by the Democrats in the House of Representatives went nowhere. To this end, Democratic Speaker Nancy Pelosi on Sunday said the House would try again.

Biden wants US Congress to reform American gun laws

Reacting to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump's </a>acquittal in the impeachment trial in the Senate, US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">Joe Biden </a>on Saturday said the "substance" of the charges against the former president was not in "dispute", adding that the attack shows "democracy is fragile".&nbsp;

"While the final vote did not lead to a conviction, the substance of the charge is not in dispute," Biden said in a statement.&nbsp;

"This sad chapter in our history has reminded us that democracy is fragile. That it must always be defended. That we must be ever vigilant."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-acquitted-by-us-senate-in-his-second-impeachment-trial-363474">Donald Trump acquitted by US Senate in his second impeachment trial</a>

Biden's comments come after the Senate voted 57-43 to acquit Trump who is facing his second impeachment trial.

The former Republican president was accused that he incited the mob that attacked the US Capitol on the day of the certification of Biden's election win.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, after his acquittal, Trump said the movement to "Make America Great Again" has just begun, suggesting not quitting politics and seeking another run for the presidency in 2024.&nbsp;

"Our historic, patriotic and beautiful movement to Make America Great Again has only just begun," Trump in a statement said.&nbsp;

"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." 
&nbsp;

Reacting to Donald Trump's acquittal in the impeachment trial in the Senate, US President Joe Biden on Saturday said the "substance" of the charges against the former president was not in "dispute", adding that the attack shows "democracy is fragile".

Reacting to Donald Trump's acquittal in the impeachment trial in the Senate, US President Joe Biden on Saturday said the "substance" of the charges against the former president was not in "dispute", adding that the attack shows "democracy is fragile". "While the final vote did not lead to a conviction, the substance of the charge is not in dispute," Biden said in a statement. "This sad chapter in our history has reminded us that democracy is fragile. That it must always be defended. That we must be ever vigilant." Also read | Donald Trump acquitted by US Senate in his second impeachment trial Biden's comments come after the Senate voted 57-43 to acquit Trump who is facing his second impeachment trial. The former Republican president was accused that he incited the mob that attacked the US Capitol on the day of the certification of Biden's election win. Meanwhile, after his acquittal, Trump said the movement to "Make America Great Again" has just begun, suggesting not quitting politics and seeking another run for the presidency in 2024. "Our historic, patriotic and beautiful movement to Make America Great Again has only just begun," Trump in a statement said. "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."

President Biden reacts on Trump's acquittal, says 'democracy is fragile'

The impeachment trial concluded as expected with a majority of Republicans declaring him not guilty, in a sign of the powerful grip the 74-year-old Trump continues to exert on his party.

Donald Trump hints at a political comeback

The US Senate acquitted Donald Trump on Saturday of the charge of inciting the January 6 assault on the US Capitol in an unprecedented second impeachment trial.

Trump's acquittal raises questions about what's next for the 74-year-old former president, the Republican Party and President Joe Biden.

Donald Trump

Although Trump's acquittal by the Senate was a near certainty, the verdict must have come as a relief to the former president.

In a statement, Trump denounced what he called a "witch hunt" and talked about the future.

"Our historic, patriotic and beautiful movement to Make America Great Again has only just begun," he said.&nbsp;

"We have so much work ahead of us, and soon we will emerge with a vision for a bright, radiant, and limitless American future."

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-acquitted-by-us-senate-in-his-second-impeachment-trial-363474">Donald Trump acquitted by US Senate in his second impeachment trial&nbsp;</a>

Trump has flirted with the idea of running for the White House again in 2024 and a conviction would have likely barred him from holding federal office again.

Since leaving the White House on January 20, Trump has been holed up in his Mar-a-Lago resort, deprived of the Twitter account he used to communicate with his many millions of followers.

Capri Cafaro, executive in residence at American University in Washington and a former Democratic member of the Ohio state senate, said the acquittal could be a "rallying cry" for Trump and his backers.

But, Cafaro added, "the legacy of Donald Trump for many at this point may be the events of January 6, regardless of acquittal."

"There will be Americans who think that Donald Trump had some kind of role," she said, and that could carry over to the real estate tycoon's activities in the private sector.

"It's almost like he has no choice but to continue to try to be in politics," she said.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-lawyers-deny-he-incited-capitol-mob-363466">Trump’s lawyers deny he incited Capitol mob</a>

Wendy Schiller, a professor of political science at Brown University, agreed that Trump's future may be limited.

"If a corporation were to offer him a speaking appearance, the social media backlash would be swift and severe, with possible boycotts of their products," Schiller said.

"Even holding conferences or events at Trump properties will be a problem for large publicly traded companies, or companies that provide a direct to consumer product," she said.

The Republican Party

The fact that the vast majority of Senate Republicans voted to acquit Trump is a clear signal that he retains a grip on the GOP, the Grand Old Party.

"The party is his," Georgia Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene, one of his most fervent supporters, said last week. "It doesn't belong to anyone else."

But seven Republican senators voted to convict the former president and 10 Republican members of the House of Representatives voted last month to impeach him, including the party's third-ranking member, Liz Cheney, daughter of former vice president Dick Cheney.

Republican Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell voted for acquittal but said Trump was "practically and morally" responsible for the January 6 violence.

A number of Republicans have distanced themselves from the former president and are lining up to take their own shot at the White House in 2024.

Among them is former South Carolina governor Nikki Haley, who said Republicans were wrong for supporting Trump's campaign to reverse the election results, a course that led to the January 6 attack on Congress.

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&nbsp;

"He went down a path he shouldn't have, and we shouldn't have followed him," Haley said in an interview with Politico magazine.

Haley also dismissed speculation Trump will seek the presidency in 2024. "I don't think he can," she said. "He's fallen so far."

But the Republicans advocating a complete break with Trump are in the minority and most remain fearful of the power he holds over his base.

"GOP senators who vote to acquit may be protecting themselves against primary challenges from the more extreme wing of their party in 2022, or even 2024," Schiller said. "But they may simultaneously make themselves more vulnerable to defeat in the general election."

Cafaro said Republican lawmakers remaining faithful to Trump were making an "incredibly risky" gamble.

"They're making a decision based upon a snapshot in time that may not exist for them in two years," she said.

A group of anti-Trump former Republican officials has raised the idea of creating a center-right third party but it is unlikely to gain much traction.

Joe Biden

Trump's impeachment trial has been hanging over the start of Biden's presidency and the Democrats must be glad it took just five days.

The Senate will now be in a position to swiftly confirm Biden's cabinet appointees and work on his legislative agenda as the country struggles with the Covid-19 pandemic and severe economic woes.

"President Biden has done a very good job of separating himself from the impeachment trial proceedings and keep his messaging on the Covid-19 crisis and the accompanying economic crisis," Schiller said.

But Trump remains a force to be reckoned with.

"There's no saying that we're immune from more protests, demonstrations, activism from the far right," Cafaro said. "If and when that happens how Joe Biden deals with them will be something to watch."

The US Senate acquitted Donald Trump on Saturday of the charge of inciting the January 6 assault on the US Capitol in an unprecedented second impeachment trial. Trump's acquittal raises questions about what's next for the 74-year-old former president, the Republican Party and President Joe Biden.

The US Senate acquitted Donald Trump on Saturday of the charge of inciting the January 6 assault on the US Capitol in an unprecedented second impeachment trial. Trump's acquittal raises questions about what's next for the 74-year-old former president, the Republican Party and President Joe Biden. Donald Trump Although Trump's acquittal by the Senate was a near certainty, the verdict must have come as a relief to the former president. In a statement, Trump denounced what he called a "witch hunt" and talked about the future. "Our historic, patriotic and beautiful movement to Make America Great Again has only just begun," he said. "We have so much work ahead of us, and soon we will emerge with a vision for a bright, radiant, and limitless American future." Also Read | Donald Trump acquitted by US Senate in his second impeachment trial Trump has flirted with the idea of running for the White House again in 2024 and a conviction would have likely barred him from holding federal office again. Since leaving the White House on January 20, Trump has been holed up in his Mar-a-Lago resort, deprived of the Twitter account he used to communicate with his many millions of followers. Capri Cafaro, executive in residence at American University in Washington and a former Democratic member of the Ohio state senate, said the acquittal could be a "rallying cry" for Trump and his backers. But, Cafaro added, "the legacy of Donald Trump for many at this point may be the events of January 6, regardless of acquittal." "There will be Americans who think that Donald Trump had some kind of role," she said, and that could carry over to the real estate tycoon's activities in the private sector. "It's almost like he has no choice but to continue to try to be in politics," she said. Also Read | Trump’s lawyers deny he incited Capitol mob Wendy Schiller, a professor of political science at Brown University, agreed that Trump's future may be limited. "If a corporation were to offer him a speaking appearance, the social media backlash would be swift and severe, with possible boycotts of their products," Schiller said. "Even holding conferences or events at Trump properties will be a problem for large publicly traded companies, or companies that provide a direct to consumer product," she said. The Republican Party The fact that the vast majority of Senate Republicans voted to acquit Trump is a clear signal that he retains a grip on the GOP, the Grand Old Party. "The party is his," Georgia Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene, one of his most fervent supporters, said last week. "It doesn't belong to anyone else." But seven Republican senators voted to convict the former president and 10 Republican members of the House of Representatives voted last month to impeach him, including the party's third-ranking member, Liz Cheney, daughter of former vice president Dick Cheney. Republican Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell voted for acquittal but said Trump was "practically and morally" responsible for the January 6 violence. A number of Republicans have distanced themselves from the former president and are lining up to take their own shot at the White House in 2024. Among them is former South Carolina governor Nikki Haley, who said Republicans were wrong for supporting Trump's campaign to reverse the election results, a course that led to the January 6 attack on Congress. × "He went down a path he shouldn't have, and we shouldn't have followed him," Haley said in an interview with Politico magazine. Haley also dismissed speculation Trump will seek the presidency in 2024. "I don't think he can," she said. "He's fallen so far." But the Republicans advocating a complete break with Trump are in the minority and most remain fearful of the power he holds over his base. "GOP senators who vote to acquit may be protecting themselves against primary challenges from the more extreme wing of their party in 2022, or even 2024," Schiller said. "But they may simultaneously make themselves more vulnerable to defeat in the general election." Cafaro said Republican lawmakers remaining faithful to Trump were making an "incredibly risky" gamble. "They're making a decision based upon a snapshot in time that may not exist for them in two years," she said. A group of anti-Trump former Republican officials has raised the idea of creating a center-right third party but it is unlikely to gain much traction. Joe Biden Trump's impeachment trial has been hanging over the start of Biden's presidency and the Democrats must be glad it took just five days. The Senate will now be in a position to swiftly confirm Biden's cabinet appointees and work on his legislative agenda as the country struggles with the Covid-19 pandemic and severe economic woes. "President Biden has done a very good job of separating himself from the impeachment trial proceedings and keep his messaging on the Covid-19 crisis and the accompanying economic crisis," Schiller said. But Trump remains a force to be reckoned with. "There's no saying that we're immune from more protests, demonstrations, activism from the far right," Cafaro said. "If and when that happens how Joe Biden deals with them will be something to watch."

What's next for Trump, the Republican Party and Biden?

Donald Trump has survived the second impeachment trial in the senate. Ending democratic efforts to hold the former president accountable for the deadly capitol hill riots. US senate acquitted him on the charge of incitement of insurrection.

Donald Trump has survived the second impeachment trial in the senate

The US Senate acquitted Donald Trump in the impeachment trial. Majority of Republicans backed Trump as the former president survives yet another impeachment. A White House staffer who threatened a reporter that he would ''destroy" her career submitted his resignation.

Click on headlines to read more

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-acquitted-by-us-senate-in-his-second-impeachment-trial-363474">Donald Trump acquitted by US Senate in his second impeachment trial</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/12/01/171988-ye-donald-trump.jpg?itok=VIZtPmxu" />

Former US President Donald Trump was acquitted by US Senate in the impeachment trial. Majority of Senate republicans closed ranks to aquit Trump in his second impeachment trial.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-staffer-resigns-after-threatening-to-destroy-reporter-363475">Biden staffer resigns after threatening to 'destroy' reporter</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/01/21/179409-biden11.jpg?itok=Jqrko6zL" />

It's been a few weeks since the Joe Biden took over the White House as the US President, and the administration has already had its first resignation.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/as-4g-gets-restored-foreign-envoys-expected-to-visit-jk-363477">As 4G gets restored, foreign envoys expected to visit J&amp;K</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/08/05/153068-untitled-design-9.jpg?itok=2j-IfqrO" />

A group of foreign envoys are expected to visit the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir on the 17th of this month. The visit, which is still in the planning stage, will focus on the progress made on the ground in the aftermath of the removal of special status for the region in 2019.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/as-4g-gets-restored-foreign-envoys-expected-to-visit-jk-363477">What's next for Trump, the Republican Party and Biden?</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2019/09/24/111111-untitled-design-9.jpg?itok=Rm0ou2hF" />

The US Senate acquitted Donald Trump on Saturday of the charge of inciting the January 6 assault on the US Capitol in an unprecedented second impeachment trial.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/as-4g-gets-restored-foreign-envoys-expected-to-visit-jk-363477">Myanmar army suspends laws limiting forces, orders arrest of protest backers</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/02/13/182655-myanmar-protests.jpg?itok=od_zuNFe" />

Myanmar's junta on Saturday suspended laws restricting security forces from detaining suspects or searching private property without court approval and ordered the arrest of well-known backers of mass protests against this month's coup.

&nbsp;

 
 
&nbsp;

The US Senate acquitted Donald Trump in the impeachment trial. Majority of Republicans backed Trump as the former president survives yet another impeachment. A White House staffer who threatened a reporter that he would ''destroy" her career submitted his resignation.

The US Senate acquitted Donald Trump in the impeachment trial. Majority of Republicans backed Trump as the former president survives yet another impeachment. A White House staffer who threatened a reporter that he would ''destroy" her career submitted his resignation. Click on headlines to read more Donald Trump acquitted by US Senate in his second impeachment trial Former US President Donald Trump was acquitted by US Senate in the impeachment trial. Majority of Senate republicans closed ranks to aquit Trump in his second impeachment trial. Biden staffer resigns after threatening to 'destroy' reporter It's been a few weeks since the Joe Biden took over the White House as the US President, and the administration has already had its first resignation. As 4G gets restored, foreign envoys expected to visit J&K A group of foreign envoys are expected to visit the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir on the 17th of this month. The visit, which is still in the planning stage, will focus on the progress made on the ground in the aftermath of the removal of special status for the region in 2019. What's next for Trump, the Republican Party and Biden? The US Senate acquitted Donald Trump on Saturday of the charge of inciting the January 6 assault on the US Capitol in an unprecedented second impeachment trial. Myanmar army suspends laws limiting forces, orders arrest of protest backers Myanmar's junta on Saturday suspended laws restricting security forces from detaining suspects or searching private property without court approval and ordered the arrest of well-known backers of mass protests against this month's coup.

Morning news brief: Trump acquitted, White House staffer resigns, and more

US senate acquits Donald Trump of inciting Capitol hill riots

Once again, former President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a> beat the rap and once again he wasted no time claiming victory. He released a statement one minute before the presiding officer in the Senate even officially declared that he had been acquitted Saturday, denouncing his impeachment as “yet another phase of the greatest witch hunt in the history of our country.”

But this one was still different. This one will come with an asterisk in the history books if not a dark stain. This time Trump did not have the East Room of the White House to summon allies for a celebration to crow about eluding conviction. This was the most bipartisan impeachment in history, and even the Republican leader castigated him. This was an escape, not an exoneration.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/president-biden-reacts-on-trumps-acquittal-says-democracy-is-fragile-363495" hreflang="en">President Biden reacts on Trump's acquittal, says 'democracy is fragile'</a>

The president, who emerged from last year’s impeachment trial feeling emboldened and used his office to take revenge against those he blamed for the charges against him, emerges from this one defeated after one term and secluded behind closed doors in Florida with no government power and an uncertain political and legal future. He forced most Republican senators to stick with him in the trial, but few of them defended his actions, citing constitutional reasons for their votes.

No one condemned him in more forceful terms Saturday than one of those who voted to acquit him, Sen. Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, the Republican leader who for four years held his tongue and worked in tandem with Trump but has since washed his hands of him. McConnell accused Trump of a “disgraceful, disgraceful dereliction of duty” in trying to overturn an election and setting a mob loose on Congress to block the formalization of his defeat, and he methodically demolished the former president’s defense point by point.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-senate-reaches-deal-closing-arguments-begin-in-trump-impeachment-trial-363469" hreflang="en">US Senate reaches deal, closing arguments begin in Trump impeachment trial</a>

“There’s no question, none, that President Trump is practically and morally responsible for provoking the events of the day,” McConnell said. “No question about it. The people who stormed this building believed they were acting on the wishes and instructions of their president. And having that belief was a foreseeable consequence of the growing crescendo of false statements, conspiracy theories and reckless hyperbole which the defeated president kept shouting into the largest megaphone on planet Earth.”

But the sting of his rebuke was tempered by his vote, which McConnell explained as an unavoidable consequence of his belief that a Senate cannot put a president on trial after he leaves office. Democrats excoriated him for trying to have it both ways, stiff-arming a toxic leader of his own party only when he was out of office without actually holding him accountable. But he also validated the Democrats’ case against Trump.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-lawyers-deny-he-incited-capitol-mob-363466" hreflang="en">Trump’s lawyers deny he incited Capitol mob</a>

Nor was he the only Republican to do so. Seven Senate Republicans voted to convict Trump, the most senators of a president’s own party to turn against him in an impeachment trial in American history, following the 10 House Republicans who did so in the original vote a month ago.

And some of the other Republicans who voted for acquittal Saturday echoed McConnell’s reproval. “The actions and reactions of President Trump were disgraceful, and history will judge him harshly,” said Sen. Shelley Moore Capito of West Virginia. Sen. Rob Portman of Ohio added, “President Trump said and did things that were reckless and encouraged the mob.”

Rep. Jamie Raskin, D-Md., the lead House impeachment manager, pointed out that the 57-43 vote was the highest total for conviction of a president since Andrew Johnson was acquitted by a single vote in 1868 even if it did not reach the two-thirds required for conviction.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-georgia-a-new-district-attorney-starts-circling-trump-and-his-allies-363465" hreflang="en">In Georgia, a new district attorney starts circling Trump and his allies</a>

And Raskin argued that if only 10 of the Republican senators who voted for acquittal justified their decisions strictly on the same constitutional grounds that McConnell did, that would mean functionally two-thirds of the Senate concluded that Trump was guilty on the facts.

“The defendant, Donald John Trump, was let off on a technicality,” declared Rep. Joaquin Castro, D-Texas, another manager.

But Democrats were not entirely sure whether to emphasize the result as a moral victory or condemn it as a shameful betrayal by Republicans.

Even as Raskin was citing McConnell’s comments as vindication of the managers’ case, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi unexpectedly showed up at the managers’ post-trial news conference to upbraid McConnell for “a very disingenuous speech” in which he tried “to have it every which way,” presumably to assuage Republican donors.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/for-the-defense-twisted-facts-and-other-staples-of-the-trump-playbook-363364" hreflang="en">For the defense: Twisted facts and other staples of the Trump playbook</a>

Wary of losing McConnell, who almost certainly could have brought several votes with him and perhaps even enough to secure conviction, Trump uncharacteristically avoided antagonizing Republican senators during the trial. While he was forced to scramble to find lawyers willing to defend him and ended up putting his case in the hands of a personal injury lawyer from Philadelphia, Trump knew going in that he most likely had the votes for acquittal as long as he kept quiet.

His lawyers misstated facts and at times aggravated Republicans and Trump himself with their presentations, but they focused on rallying the party’s senators to stick with him by characterizing the trial as a hypocritical scam by Democrats out to get a political opponent — an argument that some Republicans were willing to embrace even if they did not want to defend Trump’s specific actions.

“The Democrats’ vindictive and divisive political impeachment is over,” Sen. Ron Johnson, R-Wis., wrote on Twitter afterward. “While there are still many questions that remain unanswered, I do know neither the Capitol breach nor this trial should have ever occurred. Hopefully, true healing can now begin.”

Trump, of course, has rarely if ever been in the healing business. Now that he is off the hook in the Senate, he presumably will shed his reticence to speak out. His statement Saturday was another hint about a return to public life. “We have so much work ahead of us, and soon we will emerge with a vision for a bright, radiant and limitless American future,” he wrote.

Having failed to convict, Democrats hope that the trial nonetheless made it implausible if not impossible for Trump to ever run for president again as he has hinted he might do and that the images of the riot he encouraged will be seared into the pages of posterity. “He deserves to be permanently discredited — and I believe he has been discredited — in the eyes of the American people and in the judgment of history,” said Sen. Chuck Schumer of New York, the Democratic majority leader.

But the final judgments on the events of Jan. 6 and his presidency have yet to be issued. Trump retains powerful support among the Republican base, as demonstrated when state party organs condemned and even censured their own representatives and senators who have broken with him since Jan. 6. For many in the core Republican constituency, personal loyalty to Trump clearly matters more than party loyalty.

On the other hand, while he is free of the impeachment threat, Trump still faces possible legal jeopardy stemming from his efforts to subvert the election through false claims of fraud. Among other things, there are criminal investigations in Washington about the riot and in Georgia about Trump’s efforts to pressure state election officials to overturn the results of the state’s vote. Legal experts said the former president could likewise be exposed to civil litigation from victims of the Capitol rampage. And there are continuing investigations of his finances in New York.

McConnell seemed to encourage the authorities to pursue Trump with criminal prosecution, which he said was the constitutionally appropriate means for holding a former president responsible for his actions. Accountability, he said, was still possible.

“He didn’t get away with anything — yet,” McConnell said. “Yet.”

Once again, former President Donald Trump beat the rap and once again he wasted no time claiming victory. He released a statement one minute before the presiding officer in the Senate even officially declared that he had been acquitted Saturday, denouncing his impeachment as “yet another phase of the greatest witch hunt in the history of our country.

Once again, former President Donald Trump beat the rap and once again he wasted no time claiming victory. He released a statement one minute before the presiding officer in the Senate even officially declared that he had been acquitted Saturday, denouncing his impeachment as “yet another phase of the greatest witch hunt in the history of our country.” But this one was still different. This one will come with an asterisk in the history books if not a dark stain. This time Trump did not have the East Room of the White House to summon allies for a celebration to crow about eluding conviction. This was the most bipartisan impeachment in history, and even the Republican leader castigated him. This was an escape, not an exoneration. Also read| President Biden reacts on Trump's acquittal, says 'democracy is fragile' The president, who emerged from last year’s impeachment trial feeling emboldened and used his office to take revenge against those he blamed for the charges against him, emerges from this one defeated after one term and secluded behind closed doors in Florida with no government power and an uncertain political and legal future. He forced most Republican senators to stick with him in the trial, but few of them defended his actions, citing constitutional reasons for their votes. No one condemned him in more forceful terms Saturday than one of those who voted to acquit him, Sen. Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, the Republican leader who for four years held his tongue and worked in tandem with Trump but has since washed his hands of him. McConnell accused Trump of a “disgraceful, disgraceful dereliction of duty” in trying to overturn an election and setting a mob loose on Congress to block the formalization of his defeat, and he methodically demolished the former president’s defense point by point. Also read| US Senate reaches deal, closing arguments begin in Trump impeachment trial “There’s no question, none, that President Trump is practically and morally responsible for provoking the events of the day,” McConnell said. “No question about it. The people who stormed this building believed they were acting on the wishes and instructions of their president. And having that belief was a foreseeable consequence of the growing crescendo of false statements, conspiracy theories and reckless hyperbole which the defeated president kept shouting into the largest megaphone on planet Earth.” But the sting of his rebuke was tempered by his vote, which McConnell explained as an unavoidable consequence of his belief that a Senate cannot put a president on trial after he leaves office. Democrats excoriated him for trying to have it both ways, stiff-arming a toxic leader of his own party only when he was out of office without actually holding him accountable. But he also validated the Democrats’ case against Trump. Also read| Trump’s lawyers deny he incited Capitol mob Nor was he the only Republican to do so. Seven Senate Republicans voted to convict Trump, the most senators of a president’s own party to turn against him in an impeachment trial in American history, following the 10 House Republicans who did so in the original vote a month ago. And some of the other Republicans who voted for acquittal Saturday echoed McConnell’s reproval. “The actions and reactions of President Trump were disgraceful, and history will judge him harshly,” said Sen. Shelley Moore Capito of West Virginia. Sen. Rob Portman of Ohio added, “President Trump said and did things that were reckless and encouraged the mob.” Rep. Jamie Raskin, D-Md., the lead House impeachment manager, pointed out that the 57-43 vote was the highest total for conviction of a president since Andrew Johnson was acquitted by a single vote in 1868 even if it did not reach the two-thirds required for conviction. Also read| In Georgia, a new district attorney starts circling Trump and his allies And Raskin argued that if only 10 of the Republican senators who voted for acquittal justified their decisions strictly on the same constitutional grounds that McConnell did, that would mean functionally two-thirds of the Senate concluded that Trump was guilty on the facts. “The defendant, Donald John Trump, was let off on a technicality,” declared Rep. Joaquin Castro, D-Texas, another manager. But Democrats were not entirely sure whether to emphasize the result as a moral victory or condemn it as a shameful betrayal by Republicans. Even as Raskin was citing McConnell’s comments as vindication of the managers’ case, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi unexpectedly showed up at the managers’ post-trial news conference to upbraid McConnell for “a very disingenuous speech” in which he tried “to have it every which way,” presumably to assuage Republican donors. Also read| For the defense: Twisted facts and other staples of the Trump playbook Wary of losing McConnell, who almost certainly could have brought several votes with him and perhaps even enough to secure conviction, Trump uncharacteristically avoided antagonizing Republican senators during the trial. While he was forced to scramble to find lawyers willing to defend him and ended up putting his case in the hands of a personal injury lawyer from Philadelphia, Trump knew going in that he most likely had the votes for acquittal as long as he kept quiet. His lawyers misstated facts and at times aggravated Republicans and Trump himself with their presentations, but they focused on rallying the party’s senators to stick with him by characterizing the trial as a hypocritical scam by Democrats out to get a political opponent — an argument that some Republicans were willing to embrace even if they did not want to defend Trump’s specific actions. “The Democrats’ vindictive and divisive political impeachment is over,” Sen. Ron Johnson, R-Wis., wrote on Twitter afterward. “While there are still many questions that remain unanswered, I do know neither the Capitol breach nor this trial should have ever occurred. Hopefully, true healing can now begin.” Trump, of course, has rarely if ever been in the healing business. Now that he is off the hook in the Senate, he presumably will shed his reticence to speak out. His statement Saturday was another hint about a return to public life. “We have so much work ahead of us, and soon we will emerge with a vision for a bright, radiant and limitless American future,” he wrote. Having failed to convict, Democrats hope that the trial nonetheless made it implausible if not impossible for Trump to ever run for president again as he has hinted he might do and that the images of the riot he encouraged will be seared into the pages of posterity. “He deserves to be permanently discredited — and I believe he has been discredited — in the eyes of the American people and in the judgment of history,” said Sen. Chuck Schumer of New York, the Democratic majority leader. But the final judgments on the events of Jan. 6 and his presidency have yet to be issued. Trump retains powerful support among the Republican base, as demonstrated when state party organs condemned and even censured their own representatives and senators who have broken with him since Jan. 6. For many in the core Republican constituency, personal loyalty to Trump clearly matters more than party loyalty. On the other hand, while he is free of the impeachment threat, Trump still faces possible legal jeopardy stemming from his efforts to subvert the election through false claims of fraud. Among other things, there are criminal investigations in Washington about the riot and in Georgia about Trump’s efforts to pressure state election officials to overturn the results of the state’s vote. Legal experts said the former president could likewise be exposed to civil litigation from victims of the Capitol rampage. And there are continuing investigations of his finances in New York. McConnell seemed to encourage the authorities to pursue Trump with criminal prosecution, which he said was the constitutionally appropriate means for holding a former president responsible for his actions. Accountability, he said, was still possible. “He didn’t get away with anything — yet,” McConnell said. “Yet.”

For Trump, an escape, not an exoneration

Mitch McConnell said that he would vote to acquit the former president. Democrats and Trump's lawyers sparred over the impeachment precedent. Susan M. Tehrani brings updates from New York in conversation with Alyson le Grange.

Will the Senate convict Donald Trump?

Former President Donald Trump’s legal team mounted a combative defense Friday focused more on assailing Democrats for “hypocrisy” and “hatred” than justifying Trump’s own monthslong effort to overturn a democratic election that culminated in last month’s deadly assault on the Capitol.

After days of powerful video footage showing a mob of Trump supporters beating police officers, chasing lawmakers and threatening to kill the vice president and House speaker, Trump’s lawyers denied that he had incited what they called a “small group” that turned violent. Instead, they tried to turn the tables by calling out Democrats for their own language, which they deemed just as incendiary as Trump’s.

In so doing, the former president’s lawyers went after not just the House Democrats serving as managers, or prosecutors, in the Senate impeachment trial, but half of the jurors sitting in front of them in the chamber. A rat-a-tat montage of video clips played by the Trump team showed nearly every Democratic senator as well as President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris using the word “fight” or the phrase “fight like hell” just as Trump did at a rally of supporters Jan. 6 just before the siege of the Capitol.

“Suddenly, the word ‘fight’ is off limits?” said Michael van der Veen, one of the lawyers hurriedly hired in recent days to defend Trump. “Spare us the hypocrisy and false indignation. It’s a term that’s used over and over and over again by politicians on both sides of the aisle. And, of course, the Democrat House managers know that the word ‘fight’ has been used figuratively in political speech forever.”

To emphasize the point, the Trump team played some of the same clips four or five times in less than three hours as some of the Democratic senators shook their heads and at least one of their Republican colleagues laughed appreciatively. The lawyers argued that the trial was “shameful” and “a deliberate attempt by the Democrat Party to smear, censor and cancel” an opponent and then rested their case without using even a quarter of the 16 hours allotted to the former president’s defense.

In the process, they tried to effectively narrow the prosecution’s “incitement of insurrection” case as if it centered only on their client’s use of that one phrase in that one speech instead of the relentless campaign that Trump waged since last summer to discredit an election he would eventually lose and galvanize his supporters to help him cling to power.

“They really didn’t address the facts of the case at all,” said Rep. Jamie Raskin, D-Md. and the lead impeachment manager. “There were a couple propaganda reels about Democratic politicians that would be excluded in any court in the land. They talk about the rules of evidence — all of that was totally irrelevant to the case before us.”

After the Trump team’s abbreviated and at times factually challenged defense, the senators posed their own questions, generally using their queries to score political points. The questions, a total of 28 submitted in writing and read by a clerk, suggested that most Republicans remained likely to vote to acquit Trump when the Senate reconvenes for final arguments at 10 a.m. Saturday, blocking the two-thirds supermajority required by the Constitution for conviction.

Some of the few Republicans thought to be open to conviction, including Sens. Mitt Romney of Utah, Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, grilled the lawyers about what Trump knew and when he knew it during the attack. The managers have argued that it was not just the president’s words and actions in advance of the attack that betrayed his oath, but his failure to act more assertively to stop his supporters after it started.

Responding to the senators, the defense lawyers pointed to mildly worded messages and a video that Trump posted on Twitter after the building was stormed calling on his supporters not to use violence while still endorsing their cause and telling them that he loved them. The managers repeated that Trump never made a strong, explicit call on the rioters to halt the attack, nor did he send help.

Romney and Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-La., zeroed in on Trump’s failure to exhibit concern for his own vice president, Mike Pence, who was targeted for death by the former president’s supporters because he refused to try to block finalization of the election. Even after Pence was evacuated from the Senate chamber that day, Trump attacked him on Twitter, saying that “Mike Pence didn’t have the courage to do what should have been done.”

Van der Veen told the senators that “at no point was the president informed that the vice president was in any danger.” But in fact, Sen. Tommy Tuberville, R-Ala., told reporters this week that he spoke by telephone with Trump during the attack and told him that Pence had been rushed out of the chamber. Officials have said that Trump never called Pence to check on his safety and did not speak with him for days.

Another new account emerged as the trial broke for the day, potentially adding to senators’ understanding of Trump’s state of mind just before they rendered a verdict. Rep. Jaime Herrera Beutler, R-Wash., who voted to impeach last month, confirmed a report by CNN that when Rep. Kevin McCarthy, the Republican leader, called Trump during the attack and pleaded with him to call off the riot, the president told him, “Well, Kevin, I guess these people are more upset about the election than you are.”

A spokesperson for McCarthy did not respond to a request for comment, but Herrera Beutler said he had relayed details of the conversation to her directly, and she issued a statement pleading with White House witnesses, potentially including Pence, to come forward and say what they knew.

The defense team struggled to avoid directly addressing what managers called Trump’s “big lie” that the election was stolen, which led his supporters to invade the Capitol to try to stop Congress from counting the Electoral College votes ratifying the result. Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont, an independent who caucuses with the Democrats, challenged Trump’s lawyers to say whether they believe he actually won the election.

“My judgment?” Van der Veen replied derisively and then demanded: “Who asked that?”

“I did,” Sanders called out from his seat.

“My judgment’s irrelevant in this proceeding,” van der Veen said, prompting an eruption from Democratic senators. He repeated that “it’s irrelevant” to the question of whether Trump incited the riot.

Senate Democrats dismissed the defense’s efforts to equate Trump’s actions with Democratic speeches. “They’re trying to draw a dangerous and distorted equivalence,” Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., told reporters during a break in the trial. “I think it is plainly a distraction from Donald Trump inviting the mob to Washington.”

But for Republicans looking for reasons to acquit Trump, the defense was more than enough. “The president’s lawyers blew the House managers’ case out of the water,” said Sen. Ron Johnson, R-Wis.

Even Murkowski, who called on Trump to resign after the Capitol siege, said the defense team was “more on their game” than during the trial’s opening day this week, although by day’s end, she indicated to a reporter she was agonizing over the decision.

“It’s been five weeks — less than five weeks — since an event that shook the very core, the very foundation, of our democracy,” she said. “And we’ve had a lot to process since then.”

During the question period, senators closely watched for clues about where their colleagues stood. Although most lawmakers still guessed that only a handful of Republicans would vote to convict, an additional group of Republicans, including Sen. Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, the minority leader, have said almost nothing to colleagues about the unfolding trial in private or during daily luncheons before it convenes, prompting speculation that they could be preparing to break from the party.

The managers need 17 Republicans to join all 50 Democrats to reach the two-thirds required for conviction. While Trump can no longer be removed from office because his term has ended, he could be barred from ever seeking public office again.

The former president had trouble recruiting a legal team to defend him. The lawyers who represented him last year during his first impeachment trial did not come back for this one, and the set of lawyers he initially hired for this proceeding backed out in disagreement over strategy.

Bruce Castor, the leader of this third set, was widely criticized for his preliminary presentation Tuesday, including reportedly by Trump, and his colleague David Schoen briefly quit Thursday night in a dispute over how to use videotape in their presentation.

Castor and Schoen were largely supplanted Friday by van der Veen, who has no long history with the president and in fact was reported to have once called Trump a “crook” with an expletive, a statement he has denied. Just last year, van der Veen represented a client suing Trump over moves that might limit mail-in voting and accused the president of making claims with “no evidence.”

But van der Veen on Friday offered the sort of aggressive performance that Trump prefers from his representatives as he accused the other side of “doctoring the evidence” with “manipulated video,” all to promote “a preposterous and monstrous lie” that the former president encouraged violence.

A personal injury lawyer whose Philadelphia law firm solicits slip-and-fall clients on the radio and whose website boasts of winning judgments stemming from auto accidents and one case “involving a dog bite,” van der Veen proceeded to lecture Raskin, who taught constitutional law at American University for more than 25 years, about the Constitution. The managers’ arguments, van der Veen said, were “less than I would expect from a first-year law student.”

He and his colleagues argued that the president was exercising his free-speech rights in his fiery address to a rally before supporters broke into the Capitol. The lawyers leaned heavily on Trump’s single use of the word “peacefully” as he urged backers to march to the Capitol while minimizing the 20 times he used the word “fight.”

“No thinking person could seriously believe that the president’s Jan. 6 speech on the Ellipse was in any way an incitement to violence or insurrection,” van der Veen said. “The suggestion is patently absurd on its face. Nothing in the text could ever be construed as encouraging, condoning or inciting unlawful activity of any kind.”

Sensitive to the charge that Trump endangered police officers, who were beaten and in one case killed during the assault, the lawyers played video clips in which he called himself a “law and order president” along with images of anti-racism protests that turned violent last summer.

They likewise showed video clips of Democrats objecting to Electoral College votes in past years when Republicans won, including Raskin in 2017 when Trump’s victory was sealed, comparing them to Trump’s criticism of the 2020 election. At the same time, those videos also showed Biden, then vice president, gaveling those protests out of order.

Stacey Plaskett, a Democratic delegate from the Virgin Islands and one of the managers, objected that many of the faces shown in the videos of Democratic politicians and street protesters were Black. “It was not lost on me so many of them were people of color and women, Black women,” she said. “Black women like myself who are sick and tired of being sick and tired for our children.”

The defense lawyers contended that Democrats were pursuing Trump out of personal and partisan animosity, using the word “hatred” 15 times during their formal presentation, and they cast the trial as an effort to suppress a political opponent and his supporters.

“It is about canceling 75 million Trump voters and criminalizing political viewpoints,” Castor said. “That’s what this trial is really about. It is the only existential issue before us. It asks for constitutional cancel culture to take over in the United States Senate. Are we going to allow canceling and banning and silencing to be sanctioned in this body?”

Former President Donald Trump’s legal team mounted a combative defense Friday focused more on assailing Democrats for “hypocrisy” and “hatred” than justifying Trump’s own monthslong effort to overturn a democratic election that culminated in last month’s deadly assault on the Capitol.

Former President Donald Trump’s legal team mounted a combative defense Friday focused more on assailing Democrats for “hypocrisy” and “hatred” than justifying Trump’s own monthslong effort to overturn a democratic election that culminated in last month’s deadly assault on the Capitol. After days of powerful video footage showing a mob of Trump supporters beating police officers, chasing lawmakers and threatening to kill the vice president and House speaker, Trump’s lawyers denied that he had incited what they called a “small group” that turned violent. Instead, they tried to turn the tables by calling out Democrats for their own language, which they deemed just as incendiary as Trump’s. In so doing, the former president’s lawyers went after not just the House Democrats serving as managers, or prosecutors, in the Senate impeachment trial, but half of the jurors sitting in front of them in the chamber. A rat-a-tat montage of video clips played by the Trump team showed nearly every Democratic senator as well as President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris using the word “fight” or the phrase “fight like hell” just as Trump did at a rally of supporters Jan. 6 just before the siege of the Capitol. “Suddenly, the word ‘fight’ is off limits?” said Michael van der Veen, one of the lawyers hurriedly hired in recent days to defend Trump. “Spare us the hypocrisy and false indignation. It’s a term that’s used over and over and over again by politicians on both sides of the aisle. And, of course, the Democrat House managers know that the word ‘fight’ has been used figuratively in political speech forever.” To emphasize the point, the Trump team played some of the same clips four or five times in less than three hours as some of the Democratic senators shook their heads and at least one of their Republican colleagues laughed appreciatively. The lawyers argued that the trial was “shameful” and “a deliberate attempt by the Democrat Party to smear, censor and cancel” an opponent and then rested their case without using even a quarter of the 16 hours allotted to the former president’s defense. In the process, they tried to effectively narrow the prosecution’s “incitement of insurrection” case as if it centered only on their client’s use of that one phrase in that one speech instead of the relentless campaign that Trump waged since last summer to discredit an election he would eventually lose and galvanize his supporters to help him cling to power. “They really didn’t address the facts of the case at all,” said Rep. Jamie Raskin, D-Md. and the lead impeachment manager. “There were a couple propaganda reels about Democratic politicians that would be excluded in any court in the land. They talk about the rules of evidence — all of that was totally irrelevant to the case before us.” After the Trump team’s abbreviated and at times factually challenged defense, the senators posed their own questions, generally using their queries to score political points. The questions, a total of 28 submitted in writing and read by a clerk, suggested that most Republicans remained likely to vote to acquit Trump when the Senate reconvenes for final arguments at 10 a.m. Saturday, blocking the two-thirds supermajority required by the Constitution for conviction. Some of the few Republicans thought to be open to conviction, including Sens. Mitt Romney of Utah, Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, grilled the lawyers about what Trump knew and when he knew it during the attack. The managers have argued that it was not just the president’s words and actions in advance of the attack that betrayed his oath, but his failure to act more assertively to stop his supporters after it started. Responding to the senators, the defense lawyers pointed to mildly worded messages and a video that Trump posted on Twitter after the building was stormed calling on his supporters not to use violence while still endorsing their cause and telling them that he loved them. The managers repeated that Trump never made a strong, explicit call on the rioters to halt the attack, nor did he send help. Romney and Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-La., zeroed in on Trump’s failure to exhibit concern for his own vice president, Mike Pence, who was targeted for death by the former president’s supporters because he refused to try to block finalization of the election. Even after Pence was evacuated from the Senate chamber that day, Trump attacked him on Twitter, saying that “Mike Pence didn’t have the courage to do what should have been done.” Van der Veen told the senators that “at no point was the president informed that the vice president was in any danger.” But in fact, Sen. Tommy Tuberville, R-Ala., told reporters this week that he spoke by telephone with Trump during the attack and told him that Pence had been rushed out of the chamber. Officials have said that Trump never called Pence to check on his safety and did not speak with him for days. Another new account emerged as the trial broke for the day, potentially adding to senators’ understanding of Trump’s state of mind just before they rendered a verdict. Rep. Jaime Herrera Beutler, R-Wash., who voted to impeach last month, confirmed a report by CNN that when Rep. Kevin McCarthy, the Republican leader, called Trump during the attack and pleaded with him to call off the riot, the president told him, “Well, Kevin, I guess these people are more upset about the election than you are.” A spokesperson for McCarthy did not respond to a request for comment, but Herrera Beutler said he had relayed details of the conversation to her directly, and she issued a statement pleading with White House witnesses, potentially including Pence, to come forward and say what they knew. The defense team struggled to avoid directly addressing what managers called Trump’s “big lie” that the election was stolen, which led his supporters to invade the Capitol to try to stop Congress from counting the Electoral College votes ratifying the result. Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont, an independent who caucuses with the Democrats, challenged Trump’s lawyers to say whether they believe he actually won the election. “My judgment?” Van der Veen replied derisively and then demanded: “Who asked that?” “I did,” Sanders called out from his seat. “My judgment’s irrelevant in this proceeding,” van der Veen said, prompting an eruption from Democratic senators. He repeated that “it’s irrelevant” to the question of whether Trump incited the riot. Senate Democrats dismissed the defense’s efforts to equate Trump’s actions with Democratic speeches. “They’re trying to draw a dangerous and distorted equivalence,” Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., told reporters during a break in the trial. “I think it is plainly a distraction from Donald Trump inviting the mob to Washington.” But for Republicans looking for reasons to acquit Trump, the defense was more than enough. “The president’s lawyers blew the House managers’ case out of the water,” said Sen. Ron Johnson, R-Wis. Even Murkowski, who called on Trump to resign after the Capitol siege, said the defense team was “more on their game” than during the trial’s opening day this week, although by day’s end, she indicated to a reporter she was agonizing over the decision. “It’s been five weeks — less than five weeks — since an event that shook the very core, the very foundation, of our democracy,” she said. “And we’ve had a lot to process since then.” During the question period, senators closely watched for clues about where their colleagues stood. Although most lawmakers still guessed that only a handful of Republicans would vote to convict, an additional group of Republicans, including Sen. Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, the minority leader, have said almost nothing to colleagues about the unfolding trial in private or during daily luncheons before it convenes, prompting speculation that they could be preparing to break from the party. The managers need 17 Republicans to join all 50 Democrats to reach the two-thirds required for conviction. While Trump can no longer be removed from office because his term has ended, he could be barred from ever seeking public office again. The former president had trouble recruiting a legal team to defend him. The lawyers who represented him last year during his first impeachment trial did not come back for this one, and the set of lawyers he initially hired for this proceeding backed out in disagreement over strategy. Bruce Castor, the leader of this third set, was widely criticized for his preliminary presentation Tuesday, including reportedly by Trump, and his colleague David Schoen briefly quit Thursday night in a dispute over how to use videotape in their presentation. Castor and Schoen were largely supplanted Friday by van der Veen, who has no long history with the president and in fact was reported to have once called Trump a “crook” with an expletive, a statement he has denied. Just last year, van der Veen represented a client suing Trump over moves that might limit mail-in voting and accused the president of making claims with “no evidence.” But van der Veen on Friday offered the sort of aggressive performance that Trump prefers from his representatives as he accused the other side of “doctoring the evidence” with “manipulated video,” all to promote “a preposterous and monstrous lie” that the former president encouraged violence. A personal injury lawyer whose Philadelphia law firm solicits slip-and-fall clients on the radio and whose website boasts of winning judgments stemming from auto accidents and one case “involving a dog bite,” van der Veen proceeded to lecture Raskin, who taught constitutional law at American University for more than 25 years, about the Constitution. The managers’ arguments, van der Veen said, were “less than I would expect from a first-year law student.” He and his colleagues argued that the president was exercising his free-speech rights in his fiery address to a rally before supporters broke into the Capitol. The lawyers leaned heavily on Trump’s single use of the word “peacefully” as he urged backers to march to the Capitol while minimizing the 20 times he used the word “fight.” “No thinking person could seriously believe that the president’s Jan. 6 speech on the Ellipse was in any way an incitement to violence or insurrection,” van der Veen said. “The suggestion is patently absurd on its face. Nothing in the text could ever be construed as encouraging, condoning or inciting unlawful activity of any kind.” Sensitive to the charge that Trump endangered police officers, who were beaten and in one case killed during the assault, the lawyers played video clips in which he called himself a “law and order president” along with images of anti-racism protests that turned violent last summer. They likewise showed video clips of Democrats objecting to Electoral College votes in past years when Republicans won, including Raskin in 2017 when Trump’s victory was sealed, comparing them to Trump’s criticism of the 2020 election. At the same time, those videos also showed Biden, then vice president, gaveling those protests out of order. Stacey Plaskett, a Democratic delegate from the Virgin Islands and one of the managers, objected that many of the faces shown in the videos of Democratic politicians and street protesters were Black. “It was not lost on me so many of them were people of color and women, Black women,” she said. “Black women like myself who are sick and tired of being sick and tired for our children.” The defense lawyers contended that Democrats were pursuing Trump out of personal and partisan animosity, using the word “hatred” 15 times during their formal presentation, and they cast the trial as an effort to suppress a political opponent and his supporters. “It is about canceling 75 million Trump voters and criminalizing political viewpoints,” Castor said. “That’s what this trial is really about. It is the only existential issue before us. It asks for constitutional cancel culture to take over in the United States Senate. Are we going to allow canceling and banning and silencing to be sanctioned in this body?”

Trump’s lawyers deny he incited Capitol mob

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