Only a few Republicans have the courage or political impunity to cross Trump. The vast majority of the party falls into two camps, those who voraciously devour every lie he places on their plate, and those who discretely spit it out into their napkins.
The groups are represented by three house votes. Even after the January 6th insurrection 140 Republicans in Congress publicly voted to overturn the free and fair election. Only a tenacious ten voted in favor of impeachment. Those ten have paid a price. They have received death threats, been censured by their state parties and promised primary challenges.
For the temerity of her vote, Liz Cheney faced a challenge to her leadership position in the Republican Caucus. Fortunately for her, the vote was by secret ballot. With their anonymity assured, the 140 insurrection appeasers dwindled to a mere 61 Cheney removers.
The lesson is clear. Republicans hide in the light, but, like roaches, scuttle around freely in the dark. Profiles in courage was a book about another era. Forced to choose, Republicans choose career over conscience. The impeachment trial must end with a secret ballot.
As if living in a bygone era, law professors object, extolling the importance of transparency and fearing a dangerous precedent. But, we do not live in a proud time, we live in a time of Proud Boys. Presidential impeachment trials are too rare, only three, and no convictions, to generate precedent.
A coup attempt without consequences, is a far greater threat to the republic, than allowing Republican Senators a shroud of secrecy..
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