Key takeaways
- Former Vice President Mike Pence says a Trump impeachment is very likely if Democrats retake the House after 2026.
- Pence points to the failed release of Jeffrey Epstein files and a risky arrest of Venezuela’s leader as triggers.
- He sees growing public desire for a return to normal politics once Trump leaves office.
- Pence believes past impeachment over a phone call sets a clear precedent for future action.
Trump impeachment prediction from Pence
Former Vice President Mike Pence told CNN’s Kaitlan Collins that a Trump impeachment looks likely. While speaking on “The Source,” Pence argued that Democrats will move to impeach President Trump if they take back the House of Representatives in the 2026 midterm. He said they “impeached the president for a phone call when we were in office.” Now, recent actions by the administration give them more reasons to start a new inquiry.
Why Trump impeachment could happen
Pence pointed out two main issues that could fuel a fresh Trump impeachment push. First, the administration missed a deadline to release files related to Jeffrey Epstein. Many experts now worry about a possible cover-up. This failed release has already led to louder calls for accountability. Second, President Trump approved a late-night operation to arrest Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro inside the presidential palace. This bold move lacked international support and alarmed some allies. Pence says these events add “fuel to the fire” for those in Congress eager to act.
Maduro operation and rising heat
The secret arrest mission in Caracas shocked the world. Under cover of darkness, U.S. forces entered Maduro’s presidential home. Critics argue it violated international law and risked a major conflict. Supporters claim it shows strength. However, without support from key partners, the United States stands alone. Many lawmakers see this as reckless. As a result, Democrats who once hesitated now appear more united in their call for impeachment. This high-stakes operation could be the tipping point.
Public hunger for normal politics
Across the country, Pence says he senses a strong desire for stability. He’s traveled through dozens of states over the past five years. In town halls and private meetings, he heard the same request: return to “timeless principles and values” that once united America. Voters are tired of constant drama. They want leaders who focus on shared goals, not endless investigations. If Democrats win the House, they could use impeachment to highlight the need for change. This move might satisfy public calls for accountability.
Possible timeline for impeachment
First, Democrats must win back the House in 2026. Then, party leaders will decide whether to launch formal hearings. If they proceed, staff will gather evidence, call witnesses, and hold public sessions. This process could start as early as 2027. Next, the House would vote on articles of impeachment. A simple majority would send the case to the Senate. In the Senate, a two-thirds vote is required to convict and remove a president. Given current party divisions, a full conviction seems unlikely. Yet, even an impeachment vote alone would have huge political impact.
Implications for Trump’s term
An impeachment push could dominate headlines for months. It might delay key policy efforts and deepen partisan divides. Trump would likely use the fight to rally his base. He could call the effort a “witch hunt” and claim the real goal is to stop him from running again. On the other hand, Democrats would argue they act out of duty to protect the Constitution. Meanwhile, other urgent issues—like economic challenges or foreign conflicts—might get sidelined. In this sense, a Trump impeachment threat could shape the rest of his term more than any single law or tax cut.
Looking ahead: what comes next?
For now, we watch the midterm races. If Democrats reclaim the House, impeachment talk will grow louder. Yet, even then, success is not guaranteed. Impeachment debates could backfire if voters see them as purely political. At the same time, ignoring potential misconduct could damage trust in government. Only time will tell how this drama unfolds. However, Pence’s warning makes one thing clear: talk of a Trump impeachment is no longer a fringe idea. It has entered the heart of Washington debate.
Frequently asked questions
What reasons did Pence give for a new Trump impeachment push?
Pence mentioned the failure to release Jeffrey Epstein files and the nighttime arrest of Nicolás Maduro without international support.
How would Democrats start a Trump impeachment process?
They would first win the House in the 2026 midterms, then hold hearings, gather evidence, and vote on articles of impeachment.
Could the Senate convict Trump after impeachment?
A Senate conviction requires a two-thirds majority. Given current party lines, full conviction seems unlikely.
What effect might impeachment talks have on American politics?
Impeachment debates could dominate headlines, delay other policies, deepen partisan divisions, and influence voter opinions in future elections.