In the wake of a pro-Trump mob storming the Capitol, many are fearful for the future. Five people have reportedly died from the riots, including a police officer beaten to death with a fire extinguisher, a rioter shot by police and three others who suffered medical complications. 

Many social media sites suspended Donald Trump from using their platforms until the end of his term, and Twitter has banned him permanently. 

The House of Representatives voted 232 to 197 in favor of impeaching Trump on Jan. 13, asserting that impeachment is a necessary check of his power. Former Vice President Pence declined the offer from Speaker of the House Pelosi to invoke the 25th amendment.

So what was the purpose of  impeaching Trump with only a week left in his presidency? The point was to hold him accountable for inciting a violent insurrection at the Capitol on Jan. 6. 

The consequences of being impeached include losing the ability to secure a lifetime pension, funding for office and staff, and funds for an annual travel budget, as detailed under the Former Presidents Act of 1985. If this impeachment is passed in the Senate, Trump could also be disqualified from running for federal office, extinguishing his hopes of running again in 2024. The single article of impeachment was sent to the Senate on Jan. 25. 

President Joe Biden has called for balancing the impeachment trial with nominating and confirming people for positions in his administration and working on the COVID-19 relief package. 

Congress is also considering a second option of invoking Section 3 of the 14th amendment, which prevents anyone who “engaged in an insurrection against the United States” or gave “aid or comfort to the enemies thereof” from holding any civil or elected office. A conviction would require a two-thirds majority vote in each House, and preventing former President Trump from holding office again requires a simple majority.