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Impeachment

Definition

Impeachment is the process through which a high-ranking government official, such as a president or prime minister, is charged with wrongdoing and potentially removed from office. It involves formal accusations made by the legislative body against the accused official.

Analogy

Think of impeachment like being put on trial for committing a crime. Just like how evidence is presented in court to determine guilt or innocence, during impeachment proceedings, evidence is presented to decide whether the accused official should be removed from their position.

Related terms

High Crimes and Misdemeanors: High crimes and misdemeanors are serious offenses committed by public officials that warrant impeachment.

Articles of Impeachment: Articles of impeachment are specific charges brought against an official during the impeachment process.

Senate Trial: A senate trial takes place after the House of Representatives impeaches an official. The Senate acts as the jury and decides whether to convict or acquit the accused official.