In the ongoing saga of the impeachment inquiry against President Donald Trump, recent developments have shed light on the role Vice President Mike Pence played in the Ukraine scandal. Trump has been accused of pressuring Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to investigate his political rival Joe Biden and his son Hunter. Pence has been implicated in this scandal as well, with reports suggesting that he was aware of the quid pro quo arrangement between Trump and Zelensky.
Pence's Role in the Ukraine Scandal
The impeachment inquiry has brought to light several instances where Pence was aware of the efforts to pressure Ukraine into investigating the Bidens. In fact, one of Pence's top advisors, Jennifer Williams, testified before Congress that the Vice President was aware of the quid pro quo arrangement. Williams revealed that Pence had a phone call with Zelensky on September 18th, where he discussed the issue of U.S. military aid to Ukraine.
Additionally, Pence met with Zelensky in Warsaw, Poland in early September, where he reportedly pressed the Ukrainian President for more action on "corruption" and "burden sharing." This meeting took place after Trump had already frozen military aid to Ukraine, which many view as evidence of the quid pro quo arrangement.
Trump Throws Pence Under The Bus
Despite Pence's involvement in the Ukraine scandal, Trump has been quick to distance himself from his Vice President. In early November, Trump was asked about Pence's knowledge of the quid pro quo arrangement, to which he replied "I don't know anything about that." This statement is in direct contradiction to the testimony of several witnesses in the impeachment inquiry.
Trump's apparent willingness to throw Pence under the bus has raised questions about the Vice President's future in the administration. It remains to be seen whether Pence will continue to stand by Trump, or whether he will distance himself in an effort to save his own political career.
Implications for the Impeachment Inquiry
The revelations about Pence's involvement in the Ukraine scandal could have significant implications for the impeachment inquiry. If it can be proven that Pence was aware of the quid pro quo arrangement and failed to take action, it could result in calls for his resignation or even impeachment.
Additionally, Pence's potential involvement in the scandal could make it more difficult for Trump to defend himself against the charges of abuse of power and obstruction of justice. If it can be shown that multiple high-ranking officials in the administration were aware of the quid pro quo arrangement, it could strengthen the case for impeachment.
Conclusion
The Ukraine scandal has already rocked the Trump administration, and the recent revelations about Pence's involvement only add to the chaos. Trump's willingness to throw his Vice President under the bus has raised questions about the loyalty and trust within the administration. The implications for the impeachment inquiry remain to be seen, but it is clear that the fallout from this scandal will continue to reverberate throughout Washington and beyond.