Final answer:
True statements about the impeachment process are that it is intended for officials who commit serious misconduct, only the House can initiate it, and the Senate conducts the trial. Impeachment requires a simple majority in the House and two-thirds in the Senate for removal, with no automatic criminal penalties such as jail or fines.
Step-by-step explanation:
The purpose and process of impeachment in the United States involve a constitutional mechanism to hold government officials accountable for serious misconduct. The correct statements about this process are:
- A. Impeachment is a means to remove government officials who are accused of breaking the law or seriously abusing their power.
- B. Only the U.S. House of Representatives has the authority to initiate the impeachment process against a U.S. official.
- E. The U.S. Senate is tasked with conducting the impeachment trial following charges brought by the House of Representatives.
A simple majority in the House can impeach an official, but removal from office requires a two-thirds vote in the Senate. Contrary to statement C, a unanimous vote is not required, only a simple majority. Additionally, being impeached and convicted doesn't necessarily result in jail time or fines as suggested in statement D; the penalty is removal from office and possibly a ban from holding future office.