Central Coast residents say they’re paying less attention to impeachment trial

The impeachment trial is in its second week and some Central Coast say they’re watching less of it—if any at all.

The trend appears to extend beyond the Central Coast. According to Reuters, viewership dropped by more than 2 million between Tuesday and Wednesday of last week when the Senate shifted from discussing procedural matters to making arguments.

Many local residents used the same words while discussing how they feel about the impeachment proceedings. They say they’re overwhelmed by the technicalities of the process and just how much is happening day-to-day.

“Well, every once in a while I watch it, but I don’t watch it continuously," Seaside resident William A.H. Cannon said. "Kind of upsets me a little bit.”

To combat that overwhelmed feeling, some people are finding alternative ways to get the information.

“No, I don’t watch any tv, but I’m listening to them on NPR when I commute in the mornings to work,” Seaside resident Bridget Benson said. 

Benson also said she only allots herself 10 minutes a day to listen to impeachment news. She said that was enough time to get the information she needed without allowing it to consume her.

Some residents compared impeachment proceedings for President Trump to those for former President Clinton. They said they were significantly more attentive during Clinton's impeachment.

Cannon said that part of the reason was he didn't think Clinton's behavior was as serious as President Trump's was.

“I’m not endorsing what Clinton did, and I don’t think nobody does to tell you the truth—some people don’t really care—and I’m kind of in that fix myself,” Cannon said.

Cannon went on to explain that President Trump's alleged activity was more serious and confusing. He said those factors made him less motivated to tune into the networks.

As the trial continues today, it remains to be seen whether viewership will change again.