Senators have begun to question the legal teams, with Democrats pressing their case for more witnesses to be called, while Republicans again insisting that the alleged offences were not impeachable.

Here’s what you need to know from day eight of the trial.

In a sentence:
Senators had their first chance to submit questions to Donald Trump’s lawyers and House impeachment managers.

In a paragraph:
Following days of arguments from White House defence lawyers and Democratic lawmakers acting as prosecutors, senators were given their first opportunity to put questions to both sides. Trial rules required questions to be submitted in writing to be read aloud by Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts who is presiding over the trial. There will be further time for questions on Thursday before an expected vote on calling witnesses to testify.

In 100 words:
Republican senators used their questions to reinforce the argument that President Trump’s actions did not amount to impeachable offences. Democrats took the opportunity to press the case for witnesses to be called in the trial. Republican leaders have so far resisted efforts to call witnesses but there continues to be political wrangling on the issue.

Democrats want to hear from National Security Adviser John Bolton following reports that in an upcoming book he confirms that President Trump wanted to withhold military aid to Ukraine until Kiev agreed to investigate his political rivals. The White House has objected to the release of Mr Bolton’s book on the basis that it contains highly classified information.

Quote of the day:

Trump tweet

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