The Senate will begin hearing opening arguments in the second impeachment trial of Donald Trump beginning on the week of 8 February, after majority leader Chuck Schumer reached an agreement late in the day on Friday with top Republicans.
Mr Trump, who is formally being charged with “incitement of insurrection" for his role in helping inspire the 6 January attack on the Capitol, which left five dead and scores injured, is not only the first president to be impeached twice, but also the first to be impeached after leaving office, which some Republicans have argued is pointless and potentially violates the constitution.
Senator Schumer said on Friday that it will be “a full trial” and “it will be a fair trial.”
Under the deal, the House will send its article of impeachment to the Senate on Monday, and initial proceedings in the impeachment could begin on Tuesday.
President Biden has said his focus is getting quick coronavirus aid and top cabinet appointments into place, rather than immediately prosecuting the president.
“The more time we have to get up and running ... the better,” Mr Biden told reporters on Friday.
