Impeachment: The Ultimate Recourse for Presidential Misconduct
Impeachment, a formidable weapon in the arsenal of American democracy, allows for the removal of a president for "high crimes and misdemeanors." This weighty process has been wielded sparingly throughout U.S. history, casting a long shadow over its targets and profoundly shaping the nation's political landscape.
Grounds for Impeachment
The Constitution outlines two broad categories for impeachment:
The Impeachment Process
Impeachment originates in the House of Representatives, where a majority vote is required to approve articles of impeachment. These articles then proceed to the Senate, where a two-thirds majority is needed to convict and remove the president from office.
Historical Perspective
Table: Impeachment Proceedings in the United States
| President | Year | Grounds | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| Andrew Johnson | 1868 | Violating the Tenure of Office Act | Acquitted |
| Richard Nixon | 1974 | Watergate scandal | Resigned |
| Bill Clinton | 1998 | Perjury and obstruction of justice | Acquitted |
| Donald Trump | 2019 | Abuse of power | Acquitted |
| Donald Trump | 2021 | Incitement of insurrection | Acquitted |
Perspectives on Impeachment
Impeachment's Impact
