Impeachment
What is impeachment and why is it a critical check on the power of the executive branch? In what ways are the standards unclear? How would you define “high crimes and misdemeanors”? Have we overused the process of impeachment, and does it still mean anything today?
Impeachment
Impeachment, as authorized by Article II, Section 4 of the U.S. Constitution, is the formal process that allows Congress to bring charges of “Treason, Bribery, or other high Crime and Misdemeanors” against high-ranking civil officers, such as the president. The power to impeach serves as the first step in an important check on the executive and judicial branches of government regarding violations of law and abuses of power. When impeached by the House of Representatives, the official goes on trial and, if convicted by the Senate, is removed from office. Importantly, impeachment is not the same as removal or conviction.
