How could convicting Trump get 17 Republican votes in the Senate? Thread: 1/x

Easiest votes to get are Romney, Toomey, Murkowski, Sasse, Collins. I think leadership would have to supply the next tranche: McConnell, Thune, Barrosso, Blunt. Cornyn is quasi-leadership and respected by other Rs. 2/

Another possible group: 2022 retirees (not double counting Toomey), who could include Shelby, Grassley (tho I doubt he would vote to convict) 3/

Next group, remembering we are talking about what would have to happen to get to 17 and not what is likely: Some combination of Cotton, Sullivan, Burr, Tillis, Lee, Inhofe. 4/

A few I wouldn’t bet on convicting but wouldn’t rule out: Young, Rubio, Portman, Boozman, Capito. All the other Rs seem less likely. But looking at this list shows how hard a lift it would be. 5/

PS If this moved forward with leadership support, Scott would probably have to be removed from NRSC. /fin

As a couple people point out, Burr belongs with the group stepping down after the 2022 election.

As for people raising the no-show option for senators: Seems like the worst option for them politically.