Much coverage of impeachment has been plagued by criminal justice comparisons--is the House still a grand jury?--in part because there are so many former prosecutors doing TV commentary. 1/5

Looking down road, there will be lots of talk about Chief Justice Roberts presiding over Senate impeachment trial. Expect some wishful commentary about Roberts ruling House Dem impeachment managers can call Bolton, others to testify. 2/5

Thing to remember: Roberts can't do anything the Senate doesn't want him to. Anything he does--anything--can be overruled by Senate. 3/5

In current House proceeding, it is abundantly clear the House can do what it wants. And in trial, it will be abundantly clear the Senate can do what it wants. 4/5

After Clinton trial, CJ Rehnquist (borrowing a line) said of his role presiding: 'I did nothing in particular, and I did it very well.' Look for same from Roberts. Impeachment is the province of House and Senate, and the chief justice won't change that. 5/5