Reasons to be cheerful for America after last night's grim scenes from Capitol Hill.
1. It was not an attempted coup or insurrection. It was a mob on the rampage, which got further than it ever expected because of appalling policing.

2. The Trump presidency is already over, ending in ignominy after his role in fomenting last night. Mike Pence is caretaker for the next 12 days working with congressional leaders. The Pentagon and the National Guard are answering to them.

3. There would be some symbolism and even justice in invoking the 25th amendment. But why exacerbate divisions even further. If Trump tries to use any of the important levers of power before Jan 20 he will find there is no response. He is neutered.

4. Though last night's scenes will linger for a long time, there WILL be an orderly transition of power in 12 days. From Scotus down, the courts did their job in rejecting Trump's false claims of a fraudulent election. Congress certified the Biden presidency despite rioters.

5. There will be no invoking of the Insurrection Act. No help from the US military or intelligence services, all of whom despise him. De facto, the Trump presidency is finished.