Letters to the Editor

In response to Louie Gohmert’s complaints about the process into the possible impeachment of Donald Trump (Tyler Morning Telegraph, Nov. 29), I have this to say: I am a Republican. I am also an American, a taxpayer and a lawyer.

As a lawyer, I would remind Mr. Gohmert of an old saying, “If you have the facts, pound on the facts. If you don’t have the facts, then pound on the table.”

What I hear from Mr. Gohmert (and a lot of Trump defenders these days) sounds like they are pounding on the table.

Complaints about “secrecy” ring hollow when made in defense of a man who has fought tooth and nail from having the whole truth come to light. He has discouraged any person from coming forward, and has threatened and insulted those who did. Why?

Trump has hidden his tax returns. Why? Trump has instructed individuals not to comply with court-ordered subpoenas. Why? Trump has obstructed justice in every way possible. Why?

The answer is simple: He withheld millions of dollars of aid from Ukraine in order to take heat off his buddy Putin for Russian interference in the 2016 election, and to try and get dirt on a possible 2020 opponent in the presidential election.

I would also like to remind Mr. Gohmert that his comparison to the impeachment inquiry to a grand jury proceeding is also misplaced. In a grand jury proceeding, the defendant, and defense counsel, have no right to appear. In fact, many grand jury subpoenas are sealed until the defendant is arrested.

Trump and his attorneys were invited to appear, and chose not to do so. Why? We already know the reason…

Robert C. Perkins Jr.

Tyler