The U.S. impeachment process is a constitutional mechanism allowing Congress to remove a President or other federal officials for misconduct. It involves the House's power to impeach and the Senate's role to try and potentially convict the accused. Grounds for impeachment include treason, bribery, or high crimes and misdemeanors, with historical cases like Andrew Johnson, Bill Clinton, and Donald Trump illustrating its use.
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Impeachment is a formal process established by the U.S. Constitution to remove federal officials from office for committing certain offenses
Impeachment is a fundamental aspect of the system of checks and balances, ensuring that no individual in the government is above the law
The Constitution allows for impeachment of officials for "Treason, Bribery, or other high Crimes and Misdemeanors," leaving the definition of these terms up to the discretion of the House of Representatives
Impeachment proceedings begin in the House of Representatives, where allegations are investigated and Articles of Impeachment may be drafted
The Senate conducts the trial for impeached officials, with the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court presiding and Senators serving as jurors
Impeachment managers, appointed by the House, present the case against the accused during the Senate trial
The interpretation of "high Crimes and Misdemeanors" has evolved over time, with Congress determining the scope of impeachable offenses on a case-by-case basis
Article I, Sections 2 and 3 of the Constitution outline the roles of the House and Senate in the impeachment process and emphasize the requirement of a two-thirds majority in the Senate for conviction
Impeachment has been infrequent in American history, with notable cases including those of Presidents Andrew Johnson, Bill Clinton, and Donald Trump
Impeachment plays a crucial role in upholding the rule of law and ensuring accountability for high-ranking officials
The threat of impeachment serves as a deterrent against misconduct and abuse of power by public officials
Through the impeachment process, the Constitution preserves the public's confidence in their government by holding officials accountable for their actions
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The ______ is empowered by the U.S. Constitution to initiate the impeachment of federal officials.
House of Representatives
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In the impeachment process, the ______ has the authority to conduct trials and potentially convict and oust officials.
Senate
02
Impeachment process: criminal or political?
Political process; not a criminal trial.
