Republican compares Trump to Christ - and one likens impeachment to Pearl Harbor

A Republican has claimed Donald Trump's treatment at the hands of the Democrats has been worse than Jesus Christ received before his crucifixion.

US politician Barry Loudermilk made the extraordinary comparison in a heated debate ahead of the successful vote to impeach the US President.

Another Republican likened the impeachment process to Pearl Harbor, which resulted in the deaths of more than 2,300 Americans and the entry of the US into World War 2.

Loudermilk said the Roman governor Pontius Pilate gave Jesus 'more rights' at his trial than the Democrats had offered Trump.

He told the House of Representatives: "Before you take this historic vote today, one week before Christmas, I want you to keep this in mind.

Donald Trump has become the third President in US history to be impeached (Getty Images)

"When Jesus was falsely accused of treason, Pontius Pilate gave Jesus the opportunity to face his accusers.

"During that sham trial, Pontius Pilate afforded more rights to Jesus than Democrats have afforded to this president in this process."

Pilate notoriously sentenced Christ to death by crucifixion for claiming to be King of the Jews.

Republican Barry Loudermilk compared the President to Jesus during the debate (via REUTERS)

The politician claimed Christ received better treatment at his trial than Trump had from Democrats (Heritage Images/Getty Images)

Republican Mike Kelly also rallied to Trump's defence in the debate, comparing the impeachment to Pearl Harbor.

He said 'wonderful things' had happened throughout history in December, including the Boston Tea Party.

The politician added: "But also on December 7 1941 (the date of Pearl Harbor) a horrific act happened in the United States and it's one where President Roosevelt said 'this is a date that will live in infamy'.

"Today, December 18, 2019, is another date that will live in infamy."

Republican Mike Kelly likened the impeachment to Pearl Harbor (CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images)

After the lengthy and typically partisan debate, the House voted to impeach the US president on two count.

Members voted in favour of the first article, that Trump abused his power by 230 in favour and 197 against.

A second ballot, that the president obstructed Congress, was won by 229 votes to 198.

The impeachment hearings will now proceed to a trial in the Senate but as that's controlled by Republicans it is a given that Trump will not be removed from office.

Trump is only the third US president in history to be impeached.