Behind Romney’s Impeachment Decision

Politico: “In the weeks leading up to the Senate trial, Trump gave Romney space to make a decision. He did not court or pressure him, or phone him directly and frequently as he often does with Republican lawmakers. Both Romney allies on Capitol Hill and advisers close to the White House told the president they believed Romney would ultimately vote to acquit him. With less than 24 hours to go until the impeachment vote, Romney allies kept signaling to Republican lawmakers and the White House that Romney was leaning toward acquittal. All the while, Romney’s office avoided contact with the White House.”

“Then, on Tuesday afternoon, the chatter about Romney went silent, a fact White House aides reported to the president. Trump and White House officials later learned that Romney had given embargoed interviews to the Atlantic, The New York Times, and the Washington Post on his decision to convict Trump. Trump felt hoodwinked. And it showed.”