Opponents argue censure is unnecessary or unconstitutional, or that it would set a dangerous precedent for punishing future presidents. Some GOP critics also say supporters are using censure to inoculate themselves against possible public criticism that they let Clinton off the hook, a charge they vehemently deny. Senate Majority Leader Trent Lott, who has declined to say whether he supports censure, said Wednesday in an interview that senators should not see it as an alternative to voting for the two articles of impeachment. Senate Democratic leader Tom Daschle, D-S.D., said he will fight to get censure on the Senate floor. But the only vote that might occur could be on a procedural move to suspend rules to allow debate.
Censure is on life support gasping for breath.
Senators of both parties said censure, if it doesn't happen this week, is even less likely to occur after a one-week Presidents Day break.