Trial highlights: After drama, quick vote to block witnesses

Peoria, IL, USA 1470 & 100.3 WMBD

Feb 1, 2020 | 10:16 AM

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., signals thumbs-up leaving the Senate chamber during the impeachment trial of President Donald Trump on charges of abuse of power and obstruction of Congress, at the Capitol in Washington, Friday, Jan. 31, 2020. The Senate narrowly rejected Democratic demands to summon witnesses for President Donald Trump’s impeachment trial late Friday, all but ensuring Trump's acquittal in just the third trial to threaten a president's removal in U.S. history. But senators moved to push off final voting on his fate to next Wednesday. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

WASHINGTON (AP) – After a dramatic night, the Senate voted quickly to block Democratic calls for new witnesses and documents at President Donald Trump’s impeachment trial.

The 51-49 vote Friday all but ensures Trump’s acquittal when senators answer the final roll call on impeachment sometime next week.

While the vote was decisive, the result was expected after retiring GOP Sen. Lamar Alexander of Tennessee said Thursday night he would oppose a call for new witnesses.

Alaska Sen. Lisa Murkowski, the lone holdout, announced her “no” vote Friday as senators convened.

A final vote on acquittal is expected Wednesday.