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On January 13, 2021, the U.S. House of Representatives impeached Donald J. Trump by a vote of 232-197. Ten Republicans voted to impeach. 

The Article of Impeachment states, “President Trump gravely endangered the security of the United States and its institutions of Government. He threatened the integrity of the democratic system, interfered with the peaceful transition of power, and imperiled a coequal branch of Government. He thereby betrayed his trust as President, to the manifest injury of the people of the United States.” 

Some have argued that impeachment will be divisive; it is time to heal, a time to move on. Actually inciting an armed mob to invade the Capitol and threaten the lives of members of Congress, resulting in five deaths, numerous injuries, and damage to the Capitol building, is divisive. 

The process of healing requires accountability first. If we allow insurrection against the United States with impunity, with no accountability, we are inviting it to happen again. 

Impeachment by the House and conviction by the U.S. Senate followed by criminal prosecution of all those involved are musts before this country can truly move on.