As Republicans are adjusting their positions on the current impeachment scandal, they should consider what President Trump might do if the Senate does not remove him from office. After all, mixing personal gain with foreign policy isn’t a one-off; the president clearly has a penchant for it. If Republicans hope to weather the storm and reemerge in the sunshine on the other side, they’re going to be disappointed: This storm won’t end on its own. And if the president survives impeachment—and especially if he then wins reelection—he may feel like he’s been given a pass for his past actions and permission to keep carrying on.

This would be an absolute nightmare, surviving impeachment and getting re-elected.

Imagine the size of the ego (and attending problems) if this very real possibility comes to pass.

The US would never return to anything recognizable. The Russians would dominate the global stage.

Terrifying.