The MFJS Reporter — Winter 2020 M-W

While the trial takes place in DC, viewers all over the country are tuning in to see how to the trial unfolds including students at the University of Denver. 

Aware of the impeachment trials but not following them very closely, University of Denver student Anna Carr explains that the third impeachment trial in Presidential history does not boost the creditability of America across the globe. 

“I think this makes America look foolish and hypocritical internationally,” said Carr. 

Democrats criticize the president for what they say is withholding $400 million in military aid to Ukraine and a White House meeting for the country’s president. Using the office for personal political gain and possibly jeopardizing national security is an abuse of presidential power, say the Democrats. 

Trump is also being tried for obstructing Congress by refusing to co-operate with the Senate’s inquiry. 

University of Denver Sophomore Devon Weigers is unsettled. Planning for her study abroad next fall quarter, Weigers plans for impeachment and Trump to be a big topic of conversation. 

“We look like a bunch of fools,” said Weigers.

With the country so split in views, it is becoming harder to trust the sources where you get your information. A majority of Americans, 68%, believe made-up news and information has a big impact on their trust in the government. More than half of Americans say it impacts their confidence in other Americans as well as the ability of a political leader to get work done. 

With the idea of fake news sweeping the country, Carr explains she finds it difficult to watch the trials and follow the news because she doesn’t know what sources to trust. 

“I try to follow politics but I feel like I’m so behind all the time and it’s hard to figure out which news sources to listen to,” explained Carr.

While impeachment is taking over the news cycles, University of Denver faculty Kimberly Bailey does not feel like people have shown an interest in the topic on campus. 

“People don’t talk about impeachment. They only make jokes about coronavirus,” said Bailey

The trial will resume Monday where Senators will listen to closing arguments from both sides. The final vote is expected to take place on Wednesday when the Senate determines whether or not to remove Trump as sitting President. 

“I think he should be convicted and held accountable for his actions as he’s the leader of our country,” explains Carr. “If he isn’t held accountable how can anyone else?”