Impeachment Process and Consequences

Front

What action is taken to formally accuse an official of misconduct in office?

Back

impeachment

Answer explanation

The action taken to formally accuse an official of misconduct in office is called impeachment. This process allows for the removal of officials who are found guilty of serious offenses.

Front

What is the role of the House of Representatives in the impeachment process?

Back

To initiate the impeachment process by bringing charges.

Answer explanation

The House of Representatives plays a crucial role in the impeachment process by initiating it. They bring charges against the official, which is the first step before any trial occurs in the Senate.

Front

What is required from the House of Representatives to successfully pass the Articles of Impeachment?

Back

A simple majority vote.

Answer explanation

To pass the Articles of Impeachment, the House of Representatives requires a simple majority vote. This means that more than half of the members present must vote in favor for the articles to be approved.

Front

What is the role of the Senate in the impeachment process?

Back

To conduct the trial and decide whether to convict the impeached official.

Answer explanation

The Senate's role in the impeachment process is to conduct the trial of the impeached official and determine whether to convict or acquit them, making it a crucial part of the process.

Front

How many votes are needed in the Senate to convict and remove an official from office?

Back

A two-thirds majority of those present.

Answer explanation

To convict and remove an official from office, the Senate requires a two-thirds majority of those present. This means that if all senators are present, at least 67 votes are needed to achieve this majority.

Front

What are the Articles of Impeachment?

Back

A document that formally accuses an official of wrongdoing.

Answer explanation

The Articles of Impeachment are a formal document that accuses an official of wrongdoing, outlining the specific charges against them. This is distinct from guidelines, verdicts, or penalties.

Front

Who presides over the impeachment trial of a President in the Senate?

Back

The Chief Justice of the United States.

Answer explanation

The Chief Justice of the United States presides over the impeachment trial of a President in the Senate, as mandated by the Constitution. This role ensures impartiality during the trial process.

Front

What happens if the Senate convicts an official in an impeachment trial?

Back

The official is immediately removed from office.

Answer explanation

If the Senate convicts an official in an impeachment trial, the official is immediately removed from office. This is a constitutional process designed to hold officials accountable for misconduct.

Front

How many U.S. Presidents have been impeached by the House of Representatives?

Back

Three

Answer explanation

Three U.S. Presidents have been impeached by the House of Representatives: Andrew Johnson, Bill Clinton, and Donald Trump. Therefore, the correct answer is 'Three'.

Front

What typically triggers the start of an impeachment inquiry?

Back

Allegations of misconduct or violation of public trust.

Answer explanation

An impeachment inquiry is typically triggered by allegations of misconduct or violation of public trust, as these concerns warrant investigation into a public official's actions.