The impeachment inquiry can bring down Donald Trump even if it fails

Analysis: The Democrats have united behind a clear message on the president – and they can use it to their advantage at the ballot box, writes Chris Stevenson

‘Strike while the iron is hot’: Nancy Pelosi has moved on Trump (AP/AFP)

The Democrats have been trying to tell the American people the story of Donald Trump‘s alleged corruption in the simplest way possible for more than two years.

With Americans loving litigation, they tried first via legal avenues. They pinned their hopes on special counsel Robert Mueller and his report into Russian meddling in the 2016 presidential election and possible obstruction of that investigation by Trump.

When Mueller’s report was not framed as clearly as the party would like, particularly around the 10 instances of potential obstruction, Democrats turned to the courts. Trump’s tax returns and foreign emoluments have all been sought – and fought over – but little has emerged as the White House seeks to protect Trump’s interests. A legal case cannot be presented clearly enough to upend Trump’s “I didn’t do it” and “witch hunt” narrative.