In the long run, Romney wins

The trial of Donald Trump taught us nothing new about the man. Similarly, the sycophancy and cowardice of so many senators, their open disregard of their oath to be impartial jurors, taught us nothing new about those who acquitted him. Nor should it be assumed that had the circumstances been precisely inverted many Democrat senators would have exhibited Romney’s fortitude. Almost by definition, the kind of courage on display in Romney’s speech is a rare, and therefore precious, commodity.

But here’s the thing. In the short run, Donald Trump won his trial. He is now attempting to wreak vengeance on the underlings who spoke the truth, and will be supported by his inflamed mob and a craven political establishment. In the short run, they will crow and seem ascendant, while Romney will be a marginalized and probably harassed figure. All true.

From our grandchildren’s point of view, however—and it is safe to assume that the other senators know this—those who voted to acquit will leave at most confused and shallow smudges on the sand. Romney will leave footprints.