The Process of Impeachment
Impeachment is a constitutional process in which a sitting president can be charged with misconduct and removed from office. The process starts with the House of Representatives initiating an inquiry into the president’s actions. If enough evidence is found, the House can vote to impeach the president. This is just the equivalent of an indictment and does not remove the president from office.
The Trial in the Senate
After impeachment, the case moves to the Senate, where a trial is held to determine the president’s guilt or innocence. If two-thirds of the Senate votes to convict the president, they are removed from office. If not, the president remains in power.
Examples of Impeachment
Two U.S. presidents have been impeached in history: Andrew Johnson in 1868 and Bill Clinton in 1998. Both were acquitted by the Senate and remained in office. In 2019, President Donald Trump was impeached by the House of Representatives but acquitted by the Senate.
Reasons for Impeachment
Impeachment can only occur for “high crimes and misdemeanors,” which can include abuse of power, bribery, treason, or other serious offenses. It is a way to hold the president accountable for their actions and ensure they are not above the law.
Impact of Impeachment
Impeachment is a rare and serious process that can have far-reaching consequences. It can tarnish a president’s legacy, affect their ability to govern, and even lead to their removal from office. It is a powerful tool in the checks and balances of the U.S. government.
