Question

Use the passage from a speech by Representative Barbara Jordan to answer the question.

Why does the author use a rhetorical question in this passage?

Barbara Jordan Remarks on Impeachment, July, 1974
to assert the guilt of the president
to assert the guilt of the president

to charge the executive with crimes
to charge the executive with crimes

to ponder the purpose of impeachment
to ponder the purpose of impeachment

to explain the need for fiery debate

Answer 1

to ponder the purpose of impeachment

The rhetorical question is used to prompt reflection about what impeachment is meant to do and why it exists, not to directly accuse or charge the president. It emphasizes the constitutional purpose and invites the audience to consider the issue.