The summary of the phone call between President Donald Trump and newly elected Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy offers ashocking and illuminating look at how Trump operates, particularly when he purports to conduct foreign policy as president of the United States. But the conversation shouldn’t surprise those who listened to Trump’s personal lawyer and longtime fixer Michael Cohen testify before the House Oversight Committee. Indeed, as House Democrats move toward impeachment, Cohen’s testimony provides important context for the scandal.

To continue reading, click here to see my latest NBC News Op-Ed. (Co-authored with Glenn Kirschner)