The Impeachment Process Explained

Impeachment is a formal accusation process used to remove officials from office for serious misconduct. Originating in the UK, it was adopted in the US to hold civil officers accountable, including the president. The process begins in the House of Representatives and, if approved, leads to a trial in the Senate. A two-thirds majority is required for conviction, resulting in removal from office. Grounds for impeachment include treason, bribery, or high crimes and misdemeanors. Historical cases include Andrew Johnson and Bill Clinton, both acquitted, while Richard Nixon resigned before impeachment. Impeachment serves as a crucial check on power when other safeguards fail.

What is the primary purpose of impeachment?

• To replace an official with a new one

• To immediately remove an official from office

• To formally accuse an official and start a trial

• To punish an official without a trial

Who originally had the power to impeach government officials in the United Kingdom?

• The Prime Minister

• The King

• Parliament

• The Judiciary

In the U.S., who has the authority to initiate the impeachment process?

• The House of Representatives

• The President

• The Senate

• The Supreme Court

What is required for the Senate to convict an impeached official?

• A simple majority

• A three-fourths majority

• A unanimous vote

• A supermajority of two-thirds

Which of the following is NOT a reason for impeachment according to the U.S. Constitution?

• High crimes and misdemeanors

• Bribery

• Poor performance

• Treason

Who was the first official to be impeached in the United States?

• Andrew Johnson

• Bill Clinton

• William Blount

• Richard Nixon

Why was Andrew Johnson impeached in 1868?

• For making false statements under oath

• For attempting to replace the Secretary of War without Senate approval

• For bribery

• For treason

Which president resigned before he could be impeached?

• Andrew Johnson

• Bill Clinton

• William Blount

• Richard Nixon

How many federal judges have been convicted and removed from office through impeachment?

• Twelve

• Nineteen

• Eight

• Five

What is the role of impeachment in the U.S. government?

• To act as an emergency brake when other safeguards fail

• To ensure officials are always competent

• To balance the power between the states

• To replace officials every term