CNN: McConnell privately says he wants Trump gone as Republicans quietly lobby him to convict
As the House prepares to send articles of impeachment to the Senate on Monday, CNN has learned that dozens of influential Republicans around Washington — including former top Trump administration officials — have been quietly lobbying GOP members of Congress to impeach and convict Donald Trump. The effort is not coordinated but reflects a wider battle inside the GOP between those loyal to Trump and those who want to sever ties and ensure he can never run for President again.
The effort seems to be focused on Mitch McConnell, writes CNN. If he votes to convict, it will be easier for other Republicans to fall in behind him.