Hillary Clinton: Mueller documented a serious crime against all Americans. Here's how to respond.

[Fiendish Thingy]

20. She's right about the false choice

Very few are suggesting "immediate impeachment" as in pass articles and send to the floor for a vote right now.

Most who are pro impeachment are favoring opening an impeachment INQUIRY right now, as this would cut through Trump's obstructionist bullshit, and allow Congress access to all information, to empower them to conduct and thorough, relentless investigation of all Trump's crimes.

Lawrence suggested last night that Pelosi is playing "rope a dope" with Trump; I can support this for a short period, say until the end of May, when Barr and Meuller are scheduled to testify, and the testimony of Cline and others can be scheduled. Multiple dealings for turning over Trump's taxes will have passed by then as well.

Giving Trump, Barr, et al until the end of May to comply is more than fair. If they haven't by then, Pelosi should allow Nadler and any other committee chairs (they may need to make a select committee of Judiciary, Intelligence, Oversight and others) to open an Impeachment Inquiry. The inquiry should not be rushed, but should be relentless and merciless. If they do their job properly, Amazon shipments of Depends to the DC area should spike quickly.

While the inquiry should not be rushed, neither should it stand by while Trump consolidates his dictatorial powers. Appeals to SCOTUS should be used sparingly and strategically; instead, citations contempt should be issued, as well articles of impeachment for Contempt of Congress should be drawn up for Trump, Barr, Mnuchin and any others who dare obstruct.

Even with Trump's obstructions, there is enough evidence in the public record from Meuller's report and court transcripts to bring articles of impeachment to a floor vote by Fall/early Winter 2019. Again, if Congress, and the media, are doing their jobs, support for impeachment should rise, and Trump's approval should drop. A senate trial, on the eve of the primaries, should create enough pressure on the 20 GOP senators running for reelection that if they don't vote to convict, they may be forced into retirement, to the Dems advantage. Some may choose to vote to convict AND retire.

Any other course of action that does not include the opening of an impeachment inquiry is, IMO, the equivalent of doing nothing to defend the Constitution. While we can think strategically about the election, the Constitution can't wait until 2020 - the time for battle is now.