In last three impeachments, it has been common for Democrats, media, culturati to threaten Republicans with revenge and long-lasting recriminations. 1/6

In Bill Clinton impeachment, Princeton historian Sean Wilentz famously told GOP, 'History will track you down and condemn you for your cravenness.' 2/6 https://www.nytimes.com/1998/12/09/us/testing-president-scene-day-furious-crossfire-sharpens-partisan-edges.html

In fact, GOP went on to win House in 1998, 2000, 2002, and 2004. Lost in 2006 for reasons entirely unrelated to Clinton impeachment. 3/6

Similar, if less ornate, threats were made against Republicans in first Trump impeachment. But what was remarkable was how little impeachment, just months earlier, factored in 2020 election results. (House Democrats lost seats.) 4/6

Now, after second Trump impeachment, more threats to track Trump-acquitting Republicans to the ends of the earth. One Hollywood director vows to devote rest of life to 'the political eradication of the unAmerican GOP Sens who chose to acquit.' 5/6

Maybe this time will be different. But emotions are high now. In time they will cool for most people, if not the most ardent Resistance. And aftermath of this impeachment will likely be similar to others. 6/6 End.