You know the Republic is in trouble when NYT and other respected institutions are being called 'enemies of the state' by Actual enemies of the state (impeachment proceedings notwithstanding), esp. those who were elected to uphold the very Constitution they supposedly 'swore' to protect.
Poll: Over 47% of Americans can't distinguish whether the information they encounter is true or false.
Such is the sad state of affairs in the US of A.
9
I have been listening to the House Judiciary Committee debate the Articles of impeachment for two days. Seeing the behind the scenes photos is an excellent reminder of the hard work and sheer exhaustion Members and staffers are investing in this process.
I just wish our President had not made this exercise necessary. The bottom line is it’s his actions and scorn for his oath of office that made it inevitable.
18
My goodness. The House gave private and exclusive access to a party rag on an issue of national importance to the nation. That sounds like impeachment material to try Schiff.
8
No, the House gave access to one of the most respected media outlets on the planet. Just because actual facts tend to skew against Donald Trump doesn’t change how most people feel about Times reporting.
51
@Kent Kraus There's a shot of Jim Jordan in there. That's probably enough for you to rub one off before going to work.
7
@Kent Kraus It's really time, Mr. Kraus, for you to confront what are and are not responsible sources of news. Do you really believe that the NYT, and all of its hundreds of highly skilled writers, are just party hacks? Do you honestly believe that the NYT spins lies? After all, newspapers fall into one of our few remaining mediums that is subject to libel laws. No newspaper is perfect. What do you read, Mr. Kraus, for print? In my experience those who slander newspapers don't even read print. Instead, their opinions come from listening to event- and fact-light rants on Fox News and/or to webpages where as we know, people can and do say whatever they want, regardless of its veracity.
22
We have been living in the US for 32 years and I came as legal immigrants. We are retired now and both used to be chemical engineers (MS and PhD). Before we were allowed to enter the US we had to wait for two years working some manual jobs in West Germany. In the US we are registered Democrats and are for free education, paid maternity leave and we are strongly against the guns. Both being educated and working in the scientific research we are highly skeptical about the human influence on the climate change. There is a visible climate change happening, however, we have not seen any consistent scientific data that would prove that the change is caused by the humans. We support President’s stands on illegal immigration and international policies including the new trade deals. In spite that we do not agree fully with the President Trump’s agenda, we are both disgusted with an awful treatment that the President has experienced since he was elected. We have to go to the Youtube, where we do not have to listen to his sentences taken out of the context, twisting President’s thoughts and making him look bad. We feel ashamed that the President who undertook such difficult tasks as bringing back jobs to the US mostly from totalitarian China, improving the lives of average citizens, etc. etc. is being attacked and humiliated. We admire President's strength. His impeachment does not have much to do with the democracy. It is a political game that might backfire against the Democrats.
7
So you believe that President Trump’s violations of the Constitution have nothing to do with democracy?
15
@KDz I enjoyed reading your post.. I have a similar background, my dad came here in 1965, I was born in NY in the 1970s. We are also PhD's and JDs, and registered democrats. Hopefully this impeachment effort will fail; the treatment of President Trump is just shameful. The reality is that he has been a really great President. The current democrat leadership has to go..
3
@KDz Every president is subjected to relentless scrutiny and sometimes harsh and unfair criticism, by both political opponents and the news media. If you have been here three decades, you surely have observed that. President Donald Trump is no more or less a "victim" than any other man (so far, no woman) who has filled that office, but he has played the victim role and blamed others instead of taking responsibility for his actions. I hope you have noticed that as well.
20
As a senior in high school who is enrolled in an AP Government class, this article broadened my perspective of the impeachment process. All of this time, I have been looking at the negatives, the drama, the shaky facts, wondering what is true or not. After seeing these photos, the simplicity of them is what causes them to create a powerful message... they're human.
These citizens are fighting for what they believe in. They work tireless hours with hopes to receive a certain result, jumping into this topic without knowing if it will work or not. What satisfies me after seeing this passage is that these photos are extremely realistic. You see some smiles, some frowns, some baggy eyes, and a LOT of coffee cups. Humans.
Although I neither agree or disagree with the impeachment process, I definitely have a new understanding of both sides. As a 17-year-old looking from the outside in, I accidentally lead myself to believe the false media and drama. This article, however, brings me back to Earth, realizing the behind the scenes of politics that I have never seen before.
80
@Jesslyn
Jesslyn, your comment is intelligent, thoughtful, and well-written. I hope you find an appropriate outlet for your intellectual facility. But why not form an opinion about impeachment? Since you're a high school senior, you'll probably be voting next year. Your age of decision making is fast approaching.
38
@Linda what ever you do please, please don’t form your impeachment-related opinion based strictly upon what you read in the New York Times! The fact that the Democrats invited the New York Times to be their photographers of choice speaks volumes with respect to media bias.
2
What would you prefer? A visit from Fox “News”?
25
Would that this were ordinary times and we could sit back and enjoy seeing ordinary sights of democracy at work, with ordinary confidence it would still be there in the future.
4
Am I the only one who is offended when Rep Jim Jordan comes to an important hearing without wearing a jacket? It's ok for behind the scenes or informal meetings but he apparently never wears a coat on any occasion. His bombastic voice and lack of decorum would seemingly detract from the effectiveness of his argument although the GOP arguments against impeachment seem weak whether Jordan is wearing a coat or not.
20
@JAM He's also wearing khakis in this photo.
Classless in every aspect of his existence.
14
@JAM
Being jacketless is Jim Jordan's "thing". I hate politicians who have a "thing".
10
@JAM
It’s the way he thinks that bothers me, and that he barks at people. He is a bully(who dresses badly). I pity his constituents. He must think them stupid if that’s how he addresses them.
15
If Trump did what he did two years ago, when he apparently first could have, there would have likely been insufficient grounds for impeachment. So their case here is that Trump TIMED this leveraged inquiry into Ukrainian corruption to benefit himself politically, in addition to the country's interests. I don't believe there is evidence supporting this plausible scenario. And even if there was, the transgression of timing an otherwise acceptable diplomatic measure (however unorthodox or inappropriate by the involvement of his personal lawyer) to also benefit his own election prospects seems too weak to justify impeachment, as well. The photogenic drama on display here seems like 'sound and fury' - and little significance beyond politics and media sales.
2
The impeachment hearings have definitely solidified in my mind that there really are two Americas. As I watched the Democrats I saw intellect, diversity, patriotism and morality. It made me proud to be an American! Watching the Republicans I saw old, rich (mainly white) men, lying, cheating and defaming their fellow Americans in defense of a man who has a long history of fraud and criminal activity. A man who identifies more with our foreign adversaries, than he does with his fellow Americans. A man who has no loyalty. A man who embraces white supremacy. A man who is emotionally and intellectually immature. A man who embraces chaos and division. A man whose lust for power and money, supersedes his humanity.
As a person of color, I can't say I'm surprised by what I see. Our history is filled with rich, white, men who are willing to lie, steal, cheat -- and more importantly-- change the rules to protect other rich white men, while at at the same time oppressing people of color and holding them to a different standard.
I wonder which of these two Americas will succeed.
31
@Jimmy LOL! Remember Jeffrey Epstein did not hang himself!
1
@Jimmy
One of the representatives brought up that there have always been those who stood up for righteousness, in the face of adversity. The way that the Republicans are uniformly standing with Donald Trump is unnerving. Why?
Conversely, the dems have made me proud. The Republicans have caused me to ask “ Who are these people”?(Answer: Mostly rich white men) What don’t they have enough. There are heirs to great fortunes in Congress, who never had to work. Why can’t they set the example of protecting the constitution. Why can’t they afford to do the right thing. They are afraid of DT. They like power. They love their money. What happened to the Moral Majority? Where is their conscience? Do they not see the danger in allowing DT to continue?
3
I chuckle at the irony of the picture of a television tuned to CNN for all things impeachment. Evidently MSNBC was on a commercial break? Democrats’ days are numbered as the majority in this branch!
This is YOUR GOP
During his tenure as Assistant Coach, at least 53 members of the Wrestling Team were sexually abused by the team physician. Jordan has refused to cooperate with the investigations into sexual misconduct at OSU and has refused all requests to be interviewed.
18
@Louis J Ted Kennedy murdered a girl, Clinton sexually abused an intern and how about Carlos Danger? LOL You are a fool to think the Democrat's are saints and only the GOP is evil. #Gullible #SHEEPLE
1
Thanks for pointing out the moral vacuum existing within Jim Jordan’s brain. As far as I can see, Jordan is simply another bully boy.
8
Dear God. "Rare access"? More like both sides want photographs because they think they're going to win. This partisan idiocy has finally reached its apex with a pliant, nonskeptical media leading the herd.
Trump's going to beat this. Not because he isn't guilty but because the Senate vote will be right down party lines plus or minus maybe two people. Emoluments? Great plan, Pelosi. Are the impeachment hearings subsidized by Merriam-Webster?
The only plus to all this? With this final, ultimate piece of evidence of Pelosi's stupidity, maybe, just maybe, the triangulating NAFTA-loving democratic leadership (who cheated Bernie Sanders out of the nomination in 2016 as a favor to Hillary Clinton) will finally exit and allow real progressive leadership (like Bernie Sanders, AOC, Nina Turner, etc.) to step up.
1
Can someone explain why the ties and collars of most
Congressmen look like they were last worn when the
Congressman graduated from 8th grade and now they
are lanky and taller Sophomores in High School ?
Why are the collars so small and why are the ties
so untidily drawn up ?
Is this the latest fashion for men ?
2
"The Times got rare access to behind the scenes....", meaning someone let you in to see something that would be favorable to their party. In other words, A LEAK.
Watching the Republicans on this committee this morning
is like watching sit-down comedians at a dead microphone
waiting for their joke writers off camera hurriedly making up
laughable comments and rushing them into the chambers to
the senators who then read them aloud to their audience of One.
6
@BrazosBard remeber Bill, I did not have sex with Monica. LIE, just like these charges! Hillary lost deal with it!
1
I have now lived long enough to watch Democrats completely ruin this once great nation.
2
How much bottled water do they go through??
2
Democrats: Clear, measured, intelligent, factual
Republicans: Loud, untruthful, obfuscators
18
@Citizen, NYC YOU, a tool, gullible, ignorant, biased, incapable of reasoning!
There should be a “mute” function here for trolls like you.
4
Amazing pictures, but impeaching the President is wrong
1
@Mr. Moki
The President brought this on himself. This is his fault. He is a liar and a cheat. His used funds from his own foundation for himself. He isn’t a good deal maker. Oh and he used our taxpayer dollars to extort favor from a foreign power to further his political campaign. He is unworthy.
9
Jerry Nadler’s belt is begging for mercy!
Oh swell, nothing like an exclusive to the New York Times to feed the heightened paranoia of the GOP.
The halls of democracy adorned with portraits of the legendary heavyweights.
Nothing more sacrosanct than that in a country that once introduced the meaning of ‘liberty’ to the world.
6
One of the great advantages of these impeachment hearings is that the American public has been re-introduced to more than a few Republican superstars: John Ratcliffe, Kevin McCarthy, Matt Gaetz, Jim Jordan, and of course, Elise Stefanik.
Many thanks to Pelosi, Schiff, and Nadler for bringing these great men and women to the forefront.
1
@P&L
Thanks for a good laugh this morning. I needed it!
11
@P&L
Don't leave Republican Louie Ghomert of Texas out of the picture. Today he actually had the incredible gall to compare what Trump did in the Ukraine to Roosevelt at the Tehran conference in 1943. To compare Franklin Roosevelt, who gave his heart and soul--his life even--to the people of the United States, unfavorably with Trump who doesn't care about anything but himself, is a travesty beyond belief. It shows clearly that the Republicans have no sense of shame or decency--none.
11
A very welcome photo essay at this time. Our "politicians" do important work for us, at the least the ones who take their jobs seriously. Meanwhile, our president is tweeting.
7
Excellent piece of photography journalism. Thanks NYT.
8
In case there is any doubt, our elected representative are a hard-working group!
2
Impressive photo which seems to show three men trying to advise rep. Jordan that he has forgotten his jacket once again.
11
A new example of an exercise in futility.
1
Very disappointing.
Nothing particularly "intriguing" here at all.
And was that really a portrait of John Conyers, of all people, overlooking the Democrats' mock hearings on...impeachment, ethics, abuse of power, corruption, and bribery?
Seriously?
You can't make this stuff up.
1
I imagine this wonderful photo spread will have a similar effect on the voters as did Beto O'Rourke's wonderful photo spread in Vanity Fair. This is truly a pathetic sham. I would also note that there is not a word about the Horowitz debacle yesterday on the front page of this paper. Down the memory hole we go, and fast.
2
"Early Morning Preparations Before Showtime"
Oh, it's a show? Oddly, I'd been thinking it was a deadly serious proceeding meant to protect our form of government from tyrannical abuse of power.
The Times never learns from its mistakes, it seems.
2
Is there a reason you didn't caption these photos, especially the ones featuring people? This feels like incomplete storytelling.
4
@Dana
One reads stories.
2
This really isn't a surprise.
The Democrats and the NYT have been working hand and glove on this impeachment, which is looking more and more like Comedy Central Roast by the minute.
4
The Founding Fathers would be appalled that black Africans in America were elected members of their House of Representatives.
They would be amazed that women were elected members of their House of Representatives.
They would be horrified that there were Jews chairing three out of six of the House of Representatives committees with jurisdiction in impeachment.
They would be shocked that Ukraine and Russia were being encouraged to interfere in any American Presidential election by an American candidate and incumbent President.
While No collusion! and MAGA! would baffle and befuddle them as much as Fake News! and Witch Hunt!
6
I listened to many of the statements during the judiciary mark up . They were, at least on the democratic side, eloquent, thoughtful, clear and impassioned. We are lucky to have these men and women representing us.
39
Another complete waste of taxpayer money on a sham hearing. Banana Republics do better than than these clowns in the house. What an embarrasing display to the world.
6
@BO Krause Defending democracy and the integrity of the Office of the President is not a waste of money. It is an essential investment in the freedom, rights and lives of all American citizens.
9
@BO Krause What is embarrassing about our Constitution at work?
2
@BO Krause
The embarrassment is Trump, his enablers, the GOP, and all that support an abuse of power, incompetence, and a party that mollifies Russia.
5
This is a historic time. I thank our Democratic Congressional leaders with their serious tone, their intelligent discussions of the issues, and the obvious gravity as depicted in these photographs.
We who have lived through the misery of this administration must stop and consider where we are and the probable outcome: no indictment by the Senate and one more awful year until the election.
Let us hope the president will spare us more dalliances with foreign powers. His supporters (and fellow Republicans) do not care if he continues and that is a worry for the future of the country.
18
To the people calling this a sham, this is how a government for the people, by the people functions. In this time of grave reflection, for those who are willing to reflect - this should make every citizen of the United States feel deeply proud of our system of checks and balances. Even when there’s illegal fingers on that scale.
24
Government by the people changes testimony to paint a government asset as a spy? Government by the people withholds exculpatory evidence to give the appearance of impropriety? Maybe this stuff flies in D.C., NY or CA but not where I am from!
1
@PC : I think you mean government for the dems and by the dems. smh.
2
@Jason
Your argument would be a lot stronger if Trump hadn’t prevented many of the witnesses from testifying before Congress and obstructed Congress every chance he got.
3
Not a lot of pix from the GOP side. Was that intentional? We're Time photographers locked out?
4
@A. jubatus It is most likely the Republicans did not give permission to be followed this closely by a photographer. After all, they often decry the MSM as fake news and "enemies of the people."
2
I am worried about the age and frailty of some of these people. The stress on Nadler and Pelosi must be enormous. I have learned much from watching proceedings. I must be biased: I turn the volume down when Republicans are speaking. I have been impressed with the quality of presentations by the Democrats.
25
It's hard not to be when one side is evidence and fact driven and the other refuses to engage and just repeats 'sham!'. Republicans cannot fight the truth that Trump engaged in this bad behavior, so they try and make it look like an illegitimate process. Unfortunately the Constitution demands that we impeach if there is evidence and the democrats hands were tied from the start, even if it doesn't help them in the next election they must impeach if they truly believe in the Constitution.
11
@Leonie I too mute most of the Republican rants. I've heard all their excuses and blame-shifting for an indefensible president and the venom and sarcasm in their voices is more than I can take. I don't know how their Democratic colleagues can listen to it for hours.
9
@Leonie
I do, too. If you watch the faces of the republicans you can’t tell that they are shouting, lying, insulting their betters. Their dishonesty and lack of integrity are clear to see.
5
While the photos are compelling and well presented, I have one question. Can we set up a Go Fund Me page to raise money to buy a jacket for Jim Jordan? His attire is unbefitting the setting he is now in. Either that or Ohio could vote in someone better suited - in all senses of the term.
22
@nora m Inappropriate dress is his way of thumbing his nose at Democrats and their constituents and showing his disdain for the branch of government he is supposed to serve. At best, it is juvenile behavior.
1
Why do the Democrats let the republicans talk about the Mueller report as if it exonerates trump? It clearly does not. They should probably read it again out loud to the committee to remind them tat there is plenty of relevant crimes and misdeeds in that report that overlap , foreshadows, and predict what happened in Ukraine.
22
It specifically says that Trump is not exonerated in it, just that it doesn't recommend action yet. It's ironic how Republicans engage in the lying and fact twisting they claim the impeachment is.
6
Thank you for this extraordinary look behind the scenes of our hardworking House. The hours and emotional toll our lawmakers are under is appreciated. Another reason why I cant' find any respect for those who voted in this mess of a president. Instead of doing the job of creating laws for the betterment of our country, and ultimately the globe, our legal representatives are cleaning up the mess that 25 percent of the unthinking, uncaring populace decided to leave for the rest of us.
12
It requires, I think, a preternatural skill in photography to make Jerry Nadler appear as some kind of heroic figure.
You're not quite there, but your effort is outstanding.
5
"I want to be in the room where it happens." I once dreamed of working in DC; the impact. Great pictures and insight.
10
Republicans have many lessons ahead- learnings that will go hard for them and Democrats to better their instruction.
1
The process itself is edifying. The substantive debate of course is only being carried out by one side, which is a shame.The performance of the Republicants is nothing sshort of disgraceful, which of course is edifying in its own way too.
One tip though for those who feel themselves dirtied by listening to them. The mute button. It is a great a good thing to have at hand at times like this.
Once you have had your fill simply MUTE the GOP. It really helps.
10
A PHOTOGRAPHER is granted rare access to the behind the scenes and yet at the end of the photo essay, you tell us about the WRITER'S credentials. This is a photo-driven project. How about a little respect for Ms. Shaff and give us insight into the photographer's experience.
4
I wish when the media said things like "got rare access" the reporters/editors would explain how that happened. This is what is called access journalism and as a reader I feel I have a right to know what was traded for the access.
4
@Joe Generally it's not that things are traded so much as it is that reporters beg and then the subjects say yes when they think the media attention serves their purposes and say no when they think it doesn't.
Though on the Hill, generally it's the other way around- Members of Congress have press staffs who beg the press to talk about the things their boss is doing, but reporters make a lot of decisions on what they think is worth covering and what's not, and Rep Joe Random's bill on better regulation of hog waste just doesn't get covered unless it's a really slow news day.
1
Good strategy, Democrats.
1. Impeach because it is your duty. Constituents know you have done your duty. At the risk of losing your seat, you did your duty with your conscience.
2. If Senate removes Trump, well and good.
3. If Senate acquits Trump, then Trump will be entering the 2020 elections as an "Impeached President". A stain on his Presidency. This will swing many undecided voters to swing towards the Democrat vote.
4. An impeached but Senate acquitted President may again disgust undecided voters enough to remove a couple of Senators in 2020. A Democratic Senate!
5. Do nothing and you may lose your own Democratic seats .
Well done Adam, Nancy and Nadler.
16
Hardly a surprise that Republicans are attempting to shift blame and call the life of Hunter Biden the trouble spot, not the law-breaker Donald J. Trump. Shame on them.
9
Reality Check using others wrongs justify own just another futile attemp to point blame on other people. We come to a government is free for all has zero accountabilty.More important problem like homeless an mental disease gone rampant an accepted way life .Congress must act on last peices of our beautifull country an follow our consitution or we have no consitution.
1
Can wrk do an essay on the paintings in the rooms, who painted them and their significance. They are the silent angels attending the inquiry.
10
@Karen Reed
As a painter and portrait artist, I, too was noticing them and thinking about the minds and consciences that were portrayed. I hope that the honor they represent exerts some influence still, as an honest work of artistic tribute is meant to do.
@Karen Reed It's not a narrative piece, but the House has all their art documented on their website.
https://history.house.gov/Collection/Search?Classification=Painting+%26+Sculpture
Basically, each committee chair gets a portrait, funded by private donations, hung in the committee room or rooms of that committee. Same with leadership. Then occasionally the House or Senate commissions pieces themselves- for example, the Senate commissions a bust of every vice President, in their role as President of the Senate.
1
What strikes me is the solitude of this undertaking.
55
@Pia
and the sadness on the face of Jerry Nadler
9
One issue that I take with this wonderful article: the whole world has on opportunity to watch “how sausages are made” by watching the televised hearings. Almost regardless of the outcomes, Americans should take pride in this process, which was dreamt up in the fertile imaginations of your far-seeing forefathers, and in the participation of so many dedicated, thoughtful and (mostly) articulate citizens. Your system of government, its processes and people, are enduring and cannot be perverted by any politician or party.
117
@Robert Richardson
"Your system of government, its processes and people, are enduring and cannot be perverted by any politician or party."
Of course it can be -- and it is. The Republicans have chosen to shred their oath to serve the country and instead support the criminal in the WH. If it was a Democratic president doing this, they'd be snarling and yelling and foaming at the mouth even more than they are now. We're watching in real time as the Republican representatives -- all of them -- are selling us out. If this isn't a perversion by all the politicians of a political party, I don't know what one is.
26
From your lips to God’s ear.
8
Great photographs. I could feel the heaviness of the impeachment process through these photograph.
127
History being made expressed beyond bias and ontological problems inherent in written and spoken words of the English language through photography. Captured are the macro, meso, and micro levels of Congress, at this time in history, expressed in facial expression(s), body language, and juxtapositioning between multi-level dimensional photos. A visual guide guide to discern the general feelings, weight of responsibility, and care being taken during this process.
83
This piece beautifully illustrates how hard these people are working, and how serious, collaborative, and somber is this massive and historic effort by the Democrats. I will show it to my teenage son, who in his high school government classes is discussing this historic event. The hard work that these people are expending on behalf of our democracy makes me so proud to be a lifelong Democrat.
17
God please let justice prevail!
18
@WS
It certainly will. In the senate.
1
We're extremely fortunate to have such talented photojournalists to document this piece of history. Erin Schaff was definitely the right choice for this work, and the editors have done an amazing job at presenting his work.
19
@Dalton Her! But yes, certainly amazing work.
2
Thank you, Speaker Pelosi, Rep. Nadler and other Democratic leaders for taking part in this important oversight activity.
I know you've worked hard.
I know you've deflected harsh criticism.
But I, for one, respect your conclusions and stand by you.
62
@Panthiest: 'Harsh criticism' isn't the only thing that pelosi has deflected. smh!
1
What an extraordinary piece of photojournalism, thank you! The intimacy and grandeur is all here. Rep Raskin with his tie thrown over his shoulder may be my favorite image, there is something so very human about this one.
17
my personal favorite, Lincoln watching!
14
"Impeachment is not just witnesses facing hours of questioning from lawmakers, but it is also House members conferring in anterooms, catching news coverage in the privacy of their offices or taking a minute to assess the latest developments."
And what looks to be
at least one person unwinding with a crossword puzzle!
6
More of this please: A photo essay that tells us so very much about today’s democracy and the way Washington works at a critical time in history. Worth a thousand words…
25
To Erin Schaff and the Editor NYT: This is a fabulous array of photos showing the preparations for impeachment. It is a necessary glimpse of the work in progress that goes on every day. It makes us all proud of our serious and hard-working civil servants. Thank you!
19
Erin, your star continues to rise with your hard work and insightful image making! This essay helps fill in the gaps of what we see of the process during an historic time in our world. The images provide insights that words alone cannot achieve. Thank you for bearing witness and sharing.
20
Thank you for these historic photos. They reflect the intensity of the time we are living through.
30
This is a great photo expose . Each image alone captures the tone and intensity of the procedure. Thanks.
24
Unfortunately the fact remains if Trump stays in office proves crime does pay. What a great role model.
We can't think politicians are going to act in our interest anymore. It's out of control.
18
@Hal We can only hope that when clear evidence is presented, the men and women of our government will do their duty to their country.
8
@Hal
The Republicans are out of control, not politicians as a whole. Just watching the difference in how each side comports itself during this process speaks volumes. The Democrats have behaved like mature adults. The Republicans have behaved like sideshow barkers.
8
I’m sure the flurry before the Academy Awards show is no less intense.
3
What beautiful photographs. WOW!
13
This perfectly summarized what the impeachment proceedings really are: a photo op. I pray everyday for Nancy.
8
@Saint Leslie Ann of Geddes
Cynical.
While there is, accordingly, always a mix of politics and solemnity to governing -- this photo essay gives more meaning to the seriousness of these times.
2
So democracy IS hard work.
13
A somber time for our nation. These people make us proud of our democracy.
17
Thank you for these photos. Further brings home the seriousness of impeachment. By the way, I wanted Trump impeached on the very first day when he sent a guy out in a bad suit and without laughing told the press and the nation that the crowd at the swearing in was the biggest in history. From there ... thousands and thousands of more lies.
23
These are the hypocrites in our government, if the impeachment vote was taken in secret they would get Trump out. There isn't a single statesman/stateswomen there, just people looking to keep their jobs.
15
How does one prepare for an opposition that so far, to a person, uses ANY falsehood/lie to try to defend?
CAN ONE EVER BE READY for an opposition that *screams* 'we have noone to testify' -- the President directed that RELEVANT documents and witnesses not be provided?
9
Given the intensity these scenes convey, it strikes me as anachronistically funny to see people, such as Nadler, "riding" the escalator down as opposed to walking down it. It's as if all urgency is halted because they're suddenly on this newfangled "people mover" and they assume the proper stance.
4
The Impeachment process is a strategic mistake. Too late to withdraw, too weak to succeed. A tragic distraction.
10
@Ex NHS Surgeon : Yes, it was a major mistake for the dems. Pelosi must shoulder much of the blame, similar to the previous government shutdown.
2
Turkey Dance played out in view of media to offer a sense of thoughtful consideration by the members of the two major political parties which share the governance of the United States of America.
1
I can’t see how this legal process is “overturning an election”. Even if that were true (and it isn’t) we’ve already endured 3 out of 4 years of that disastrous electoral college outcome. Packing the courts, overturning our environmental safeguards, attacking our precious public lands, damaging our alliances, blowing up the deficit to an obscene level. And social justice, women’s rights? Kids in cages, lip service to opioid abuse, an increase in hate crimes. I know several conservatives who are ready to overturn their vote in the last election.
50
Wow! Thank you for a beautiful piece of photo journalism. There is simply nothing better to capture the moment than a still image.
This set is definitely one for the history books.
21
A heroic sausage being made before our very eyes.
9
Why do we keep hearing about the temperature in the rooms being so freezing cold? Why are the rooms not heated better?
5
@Madeline Conant
We always do that for large anxious gatherings. Keeps people alert; awake and enthusiastic! There is no one temperature to satisfy all, so to err on the side of cold is far superior to keeping things moving than warm.
1
Subscription to the NYT is the monthly expense I do not regret. Thank you for these exclusive pictures. It gives us a glimpse of what went behind the scenes.
40
If I may make a suggestion, for the next behind-the-scenes look, can you capture our elected officials as they gather and strategize with the lobbyists?
31
@JG I agree, although I doubt our fearless leaders from both sides of the aisle would agree to it!!!!
3
@JG Can we also have some photos of what took place behind closed doors between Trump and Soviet aggresors? Including that Helsinki meeting, please?
1
The photographs of the "sausage making" would be satisfying had the product been more delicious.
Where was the tactical response approach that would have allowed the Democrat Representatives to immediately follow the GOP obfuscation after every GOP member's time? They should have presented rejections of specious and off topic GOP arguments when they would count the most, by having competent staff preparing answers that rejected them in real time, in the first minute of the next Democrat speaker's allotted time. Let's hope the do a better job in the Senate.
7
@rich YES! Exactly what I was thinking yesterday as I watched. Such an obvious technique to use.
I appreciate the photographs, but the chronicle of Trump’s impeachment is incomplete without the actual sounds of Republicans yelling, shouting, lying, and repeating discredited Russian talking points.
51
@proffexpert
The behavior of the Republicans is beyond the pale. I can think of no other time when I have seen such an orchestrated adolescent display of temper tantrums by adults, let alone those who are members of Congress. Actually some were like two year olds trying to defend the fact that their hands were actually caught in the proverbial cookie jar. They not only ranted and raved, I expected one or more of them to actually hold their breaths in defiance as small children will do.
7
Be careful what you ask for. Next November Democrats just might be campaigning against Niki Haley or Mitt Romney or John Kasich, or even William Weld, etc. Do you really want that?
@Robert Plautz: Niki Haley would be a threat. But Kasich or Romney? Many Trump voters would rather stay home.
1
@Robert Plautz Yes actually. Haley and Romney (meh to Kasich) I think would be wonderful GOP candidates that would help start to broach the partisan divide. That is what I don't understand; why isn't the GOP abandoning Trump and offering up an alternative for 2020 as opposed to setting the ship on fire while it's sinking.
8
It would be wonderful to have good candidates from both parties, people with real governmental experience, some measure of ethics and intelligence, and, lord help us, maybe even a modicum of morality. Not in any way expecting perfection or a complete lack of negative qualities, these folks are human and looking for work as politicians, after all. But not having Trump involved would be a complete relief.
9
Great pictures. Wow-- I wish our government ate a little healthier lol!
6
@Ross Bell They eat what they subsidize for easier access and affordability. A government for large corporations large corporations. Wouldn't at all be surprised if the Lobbyist do not feed them for free.
This is a transparent attempt. to glorify the impeachment process. It will be followed by pictures of Senators voting down conviction with background music from Jaws.
12
I find no joy in viewing this spectacle.
Nadler and House Democrats have failed to build a case for impeachment and removal by omitting the most serious offenses by Trump in their haste. At best a vote of censure is appropriate until further testimony and evidence can be assembled based on court orders. Between the far left candidates running for the Democratic nomination, the failures of the Mueller Report to recommend indictment or impeachment for collusion and obstruction and now a watered down and ineffectual impeachment attempt, Trump's reelection is guaranteed. Putin must be overjoyed. Treason and extortion has been fully sanctioned by Justice Dept. and Congress. Ukraine has no reason to consider US an ally with Trump as president. Russia may as well have all sanctions removed.
Pray for RBG's health or our democracy under the Constitution will be a thing of the past.
11
@LVG - Failed only for those who ignore what they don't like to see and what they don't like to hear. Your president himself has indicted himself. In a normal America it would have been far sufficient to have him thrown out of office.
My only regret is the dems didn't go further with their articles but my guess is they felt they had to keep it simple in order to make it easy for some people to understand, for those who can't connect dots. In each article they are giving you a single dot to understand, you don't have to connect any. You wish to ignore what each singular dot says, that's on you. But you really should change your party's name to the new American tory party. No longer are there the same type republicans which composed the group when i was a party member. Those republicans were more loyal to country than they were to any single party member or the party itself. The old tories supported the king over the revolutionaries. The new American tories are trying to install a king and bring authoritarian rule to the nation.
18
@rivvir
Trump is not the king but just the American Chief of staff for Putin
4
@LVG
Selling arms to the Ukraine is hardly in Russia's interest now is it ?
1
Sure would like to see behind the scenes photos as Adam Schiif read The Horowitz report
10
Thank you Erin Schaff, your work throughout the hearings has been excellent.
11
Wonderful insights, allowing “we, the people” to see our leaders in this light. It should be noted that there is a marked difference between the red and blue members with regard to gender and racial diversity, an indicator of who they represent. Check out the spectrum of committee members on both sides of the aisle at judiciary.house.gov
32
Thank you for this intimate glimpse that reminds us of the human side of our legislators.
I've been making it a point to visit the Facebook pages of Jerry Nadler, Nancy Pelosi, Adam Schiff, and others, and thanking them for protecting our inheritance from the Founding Fathers.
I've also been making it a point to visit the Facebook pages of Jim Jordan, Doug Collins, and others, and asking them what could ever compensate them for betraying our country.
I know my comments are tiny blips in a sea of comments, but there's a lot of hate out there, and it's better to light one virtual candle than to curse the darkness.
82
@Danusha Goska Thank you for your thoughtful comments and actions. Those of us who are dedicated to truth and justice are doing our part to shine light into these dark days. I pray we may see the light at the end of our collective tunnel of darkness as soon as possible.
14
Do people really buy this? A bunch of politicians engaging in partisan warfare but pretending that their performing some vital service to the nation?
13
@Christopher Loonam What you mean is, do we *believe* that our elected representatives are holding the President accountable for his crimes? Yes, we do. There are people, and you and 45 seem to be among them, who think that all of life is about selling, buying, and walking away with the biggest pile. Then there are those who care more about advancing liberty and justice for all. I am proud of these Congresswomen and men and their efforts to rescue our Republic from a shameless ignoramus (at best) and criminal traitor (at worst).
30
Same can be said about the radical partisanship on display from the far right. And what exactly are they fighting for? The right for future presidents to bribe and personally elicit help from foreign governments is what Republicans are fighting for.
8
@Me
So now the Dems are "rescuing" us ? How, by putting Pence in office a few months before and election? Maybe they are just trying to secure their own return path to power by removing someone they know they can't beat
Rescue ? Oh, okay, yeah, sure.
This is a shameless act of desperation wrapped in the Constitution which the Left used to hold up as the worst part of America
1
Hopefully these photographs won’t be as epitaph on the gravestone of our system.
We seem to be headed into uncharted territory as Republicans shore up their alternative reality where truth is bogus and working for V Putin is a job recommendation.
21
It's interesting to see the lawmakers in their behind the scenes moments despite the photographs not being labeled. However while looking paging through, the ad placements interspersed throughout, was a jarringly A famous underwear manufacturer featuring what appears to be a too young female model displaying 2 piece underwear. How poignant it is that the NYT still accepts these ads and then allow placement in an Impeachment process behind the scenes featuring mostly men?
9
@Other
Friend, there are certain tools which help you not see any of that stuff. Use them.
7
Sure there are friend, but it’s high time that the publisher vet their ads for appropriateness to their core values or not.
3
@Other So, get AdBlock. Yes, I certainly agree with your comment on indecency in advertising. NYT, up your game!
1
Cue the gravitas, the solemnity, the prayerfulness.
This is such laughably vacuous nonsense, and such a waste of time. We send these bozos $4 trillion of our hard-earned money every year (and they keep wanting more), and this is the third-world spectacle we get in return. All cheered on by a feckless press.
Leave such photo spreads to Vanity Fair. Please.
17
@Whatever $157 million of that $ 4trillion went to fund the president's golf trips. Happy now?
19
@Whatever
I live a 2 hours' train ride from DC, close enough to visit my congressfolks a couple times a session.
The ethics, guidelines, and traditions of their office do not allow for much by way of high living though the buildings are, by design, impressive, the food in the cafeterias is poor to okay, the furniture reused, and the clothing obviously cheap. Think Condoleza Rice flying commercial business class, and US Reps rooming together in DC apartments. Their salaries do not go far in the city, hence the proliferation of pizza boxes and potato chip bags.
We, meaning the US, have never admired conspicuous consumption or equated the trappings of wealthy glitter with competence. But with our current Cabinet and POTUS, we appear to have embraced corporate greed and excess as indicators of some kind of weird, morally bankrupt yet desirable, success.
9
@c That captures the substance of the argument from you guys: he wastes $157 million (leaving aside the fact that you just made up that number), so I'll do it too.
Go vote, if you want a change of government.
2
Dead serious, solemn, and often moving—
Who does this creature that calls himself Trump think he is, thumbing his nose at the United States Congress and House of Representatives.
[And please get them better food than what I saw on that table. We need all faculties healthily functioning fir this direly important work.]
95
@srwdm Thank you for the food comment. I saw nothing that was actually food on that table. Nothing some people in eat anymore that know a lot about food and the body. I can say as a young adult cancer survivor of a rare genetic mutation I definitely eat for health and love it. It was such a cheer to read your [P.S]. but, then I felt the pain of, afterall, for now, we are still a government for betterment corporations only. That is the "food" that is most accessible and subsidised in some way by the government we pay to represent corporations.
5
There is something very reassuring in looking at the serious and earnest miens evident in all of these Congressional photos. Whether for or against impeachment, this is serious business that will have historic repercussions.
24
I didn't notice any bi-partisan contemplation and discussion in a single NYT photo while preparing the Articles of Impeachment. Weren't overwhelming evidence and bi-partisan support two of Pelosi's requirements for impeachment?
15
@Ben Anders
It is difficult to overcome cowardice.
9
Impressive, sobering photographs, thank you for them. I felt the seriousness of the endeavor of impeachment and admire these leaders more as a result. Photographs do what video cannot.
36
I was born the year of Nixon's impeachment trial. As many other here, I have watched as much of the impeachment proceedings as I have been able to. On one side I see patriotic Americans standing up for our constitution and the rule of law. On the other I see an entire party of Trump enablers who are complicit (and sometimes part of (looking at you Devin Nunes)) of Trump's crimes against our nation. It has been disgusting to watch. I fear for my country and where we are headed as a nation. I think we are in a far more perilous situation than most will admit.
But I have a small glimmer of hope that the youth of this country, those of the Parkland generation will be woke enough to see the truth and VOTE. My generation and my parents generation have failed. 2020 is the most important election of our nation's history. Let us hope enough of us are willing to be on the right side of that history.
99
Your parent’s generation and my generation (WWII) marched and voted for Civil Rights, Women’s Rights, protested against Vietnam, marched for abortion rights, etc. so how did they fail? What has your generation done? Yes, hopefully, the children of Sandy Hook, Parkland etc will now take the lead. So far there’s been a lot of talk but,except for a few, not much action. I can only hope!
15
@NMS They failed over the last two decades, swapping passion for just causes with greed, laziness and support for corporate America. Our generations have all but stopped protesting (except for the #metoo movement) and many just care about themselves. It's the millenials and gen Y now - they're our only hope...
3
@Raydeohed wrote "those of the Parkland generation will be woke enough to see..." and yet the individual who was responsible for the Parkland massacre has not yet been brought to justice over a year after the crime.
2
Finally, the physician treats the disease instead of talking about the symptoms.
11
Government is a very large connected system and we often fail to recognize its complexity. The picture of the hearing room with aides, committee members, witnesses, and staff tells this story in pictures better than any text could do. We have to take away from this that our Democratic congressmen work very hard throughout this process to build consensus among members who have very different opinions. Democrats take their responsibilities very seriously unlike the other party that just have to prattle the same old party line nonsense.
23
These are important pictures and part of a very important time in our history.
15
The pictures reflect that impeachment is a solemn and weighty undertaking for many members and their staff. Defending the constitution is their highest calling.
12
Just what we would imagine back in 2016, that the newly elected president would try to sell our nation out to foreign powers, and in December, 2019 we would be seeing pictures of impending impeachment proceedings.
Oh how we wish Donald Trump had never won that election back then. What a huge mistake. Nothing but chaos ever since.
The next time, in 2020, this country better get it right.
56
A few commenters lament that there are no names identifying the Representatives in the photos. If you don't know most of these people by sight by now, you aren't paying attention.
12
@Mike
I recognized the back of Jordan's shirt!
Time for me to turn everything off and go bake cookies.
But why are they all in the shape of gavels?
5
@Mike : Oh come on, what's wrong with putting captions under photos? Is this another "new" way to present a visual story.
2
Dead serious, solemn, and often moving—
Who does this creature that calls himself Trump think he is, thumbing his nose at the United States Congress and House of Representatives.
[And please get them better food than what I saw on that table. We need all faculties healthily functioning for this direly important work.]
7
The NYT just loves this impeachment of Trump.
But, this is not a valid impeachment. It is partisan. The Founding Fathers explicitly made impeachment and removal of a President dependent on an overwhelming majority--not
what we have now. More than 40% of the country loves our current President.
The correct course would be for Congress to censure Trump.
This unpopular impeachment will come back to bite the Democrats. When Trump wins re-election he will be free to abuse power even more. What does he have to lose.
The real problem is the Democratic Party is a mess and does not have a candidate who can beat Trump in 2020...and everyone knows it.
11
Forty percent of the country loves high fructose corn syrup. Doesn’t make it healthy.
4
@JAG "But, this is not a valid impeachment. It is partisan. The Founding Fathers explicitly made impeachment and removal of a President dependent on an overwhelming majority--not
what we have now. More than 40% of the country loves our current President". Sorry, but not true at all. What the founders DID DO was to give the power of impeachment to the House of Representatives, not a majority of the voters. As Republicans so often point out, we live in a republic, not a democracy. Article 1, section 2, clause 5 of the constitution says.... "The House of Representatives shall choose their Speaker and other Officers; and shall have the sole Power of Impeachment." The Supreme Court essentially upheld the House's sole power of impeachment in the Nixon (not the president) vs U.S decision. By the way, the decision was unanimous.
@JAG: If the impeachment attempt fails, the dems are in hot water. Voters will remember this and the ridiculous government shutdown over illegal immigration.
I, for one, am considering a switch in my political affiliation. I'm getting a little tired of the unceasing partisan reporting in this newspaper.
1
Democrats may be going about this impeachment process a little too nicely! They, too, should have signs behind their seats reminding Americans of every instance Trump has bullied others for his own gains and amusement over the past 3 plus years! Obviously, McConnel and fellow Trumplicans are going to hold a sham of a trial, calling no witnesses, for the express purpose of exonerating Trump regardless of the evidence proving Trump attempted to shake down our Allies in Ukraine. So much for America first! Republicans care about Republicans ONLY!
27
@A Disgusted Independent American
Best thing to do is to defeat Moscow Mitchell at the polls. There is a "Ditch Mitch" fund (Google the website). They'll keep asking you for dough, but give what you can. Even $15 would help.
12
The unsung heroes of the crisis toil in the back rooms, trying to save the USA from Trump and his cohorts. Simple as that.
21
Wonderful presentation. Thank you NYT! You are a great public service. I wish we had more reporting like the NYT.
46
Over the past 40+ years, I've been both an active Republican and a Democrat, voting for candidates irregardless of party. I appreciate these behind-the-scenes insights on a process that no American eagerly welcomed, and yet I'm grateful that we have public servants willing to see this through, to hold a divisive, dangerous and apparently criminal president to account. One result of watching GOP representatives distort and discount the president's actions has been that I will never vote for another GOP candidate again. Ever.
220
@kathywrites and I would NEVER, ever vote for any democrat again - they are an embarrassment to our country, filled with hubris, hatred and such obvious hypocrisy. I am glad it is all blowing up - on all sides!
2
@ScottB examples please.
9
What a beautiful article. I have watched more TV in the past month than in the past 20 years and have no regrets. The hearing yesterday was filled with moments where I felt intense pride and the personal stories that the Rep's showed on the Democratic side made me proud and grateful that I was raised in this inclusive and rich in spirit party. The mute button was essential, if you have spent weeks reading and also watching the hearings it was heartbreaking to hear the Republicans flat out lie about secret rooms and no witnesses, after a time I just tuned out when they spoke. I hope we find a way to permanently mute them, with our votes, from such serious deliberations in the future, they litter those hollowed halls in more ways than one.
184
@Dr Cherie my experience precisely
6
Now if only the fruits of their labors would depose the tyrant, wouldn’t we all breathe free? Democrats, you have fulfilled your constitutional duties; be proud. The other side of the aisle, slink out and know generations will remember you as those who bludgeoned the Constitution for a conman.
268
The New York Times should be ashamed for giving this exercise in political, self-stroking vanity prominent coverage. The triteness of this low-bar impeachment cannot be exaggerated.
It's more like an act of hysterical petulance than the rational, grave decision that Democrats are pretending unsuccessfully that it represents.
The WSJ said it best: "By defining impeachment down, [Democrats] are turning what should be a rare and extraordinary constitutional remedy into a routine tool of partisan warfare. They are harming constitutional norms . . ."
Remember Harry Reid ending a century-old Senate rule regarding the filibuster of judicial nominees and what happened after? You should.
31
I find these photographs, while insightful and revealing, to expose elected officials, ruled by their emotions, engaging in egoistic self-abuse. No surprise that when you systematically lower your standards for over 50 years, this is what you get. And to think that this is the best that America has to offer. Role models for children to aspire to?
10
@Dougal E
Thank you! I couldn't have said it better. I found this article to be positively ghoulish. This is NOT a serious matter to the Democrats, despite their fake sanctimony. Impeachment is the "last resort" not something to be taken lightly. This matter has been going on since Trump was elected (even before he took office).
The media will pay for their role in this.
9
The president violated the oath of office probably hundreds of times. Impeachment is appropriate. GOP won’t be in power for much longer.
72
Photo captions please! While these are wonderful photos into the world most of us don't see, I'm sure I'm not alone in stating, "who are these people?" Just a few are familiar while most are not. Captions would be incredibly helpful. Thanks.
119
@East Roast, Indeed!
6
@East Roast These are the big money donors from people like Soros that have influenced the impeachment decision.
2
Nice that both parties provided access but I am struggling to find pictures of Republican members in those same "private" moments that several of the Democrats are being portrayed in or the small gatherings of committee members. Would be helpful to label who is in each picture.
24
@DC
Indeed... the behind the scenes bureaucracy that supports those with the public faces. Who are they? Where do they come from? What other causes have they written speeches, concocted legal arguments in favor of? Who pays them and how much? (And for the public faces of both parties.)
2