If the Republicans were smart and really cared about this country. [View all]
They would find a way to keep the Articles of Impeachment in limbo. The Articles would be like the sword of Damocles over the head of Donald Trump. It would be a forced discipline upon him.
Knowing that if he veered too far off the trail, he could be removed from office, could act as a possible deterrent to some insane decision.
Republicans could play all the political games they wanted with their supporters but would keep the Articles of Impeachment hanging over the head of their Commander in Chief.
It would be a way for them to semi-protect our country as they maintained their base and their political futures.
To dispose of the Articles, by declaring Mr Trump acquitted, would be very unwise. They would endanger our country unnecessarily, with hopes that the "base" would embrace them.
But, it may be a little too much to expect Republicans to think of their country before Party?