What is Impeachment?
Impeachment is a process outlined in the U.S. Constitution that allows Congress to remove a sitting president, vice president, or other federal officials from office for committing high crimes and misdemeanors. This mechanism serves as a crucial check on executive power, ensuring accountability and integrity within the federal government.
The Impeachment Process
The impeachment process typically begins in the House of Representatives. Here, any member can introduce articles of impeachment, which are formal accusations against the official in question. These articles are then referred to the House Judiciary Committee for investigation and review.
If the committee finds sufficient evidence, it will present the articles to the entire House. A simple majority vote is required to impeach the official. If impeached, the process moves to the Senate, which conducts a trial. During this trial, senators serve as jurors, and the Chief Justice of the United States presides when the president is the one being tried.
Outcome of the Impeachment Trial
In the Senate, a two-thirds majority is necessary to convict and remove the official from office. If convicted, the individual is removed, but this does not preclude further legal action outside of impeachment proceedings. Historically, only a few officials have been impeached, with even fewer being removed, showcasing the weight and gravity of this process.