Final answer:
The impeachment process begins with the House launching an inquiry, followed by a vote to impeach if sufficient evidence is found. The Senate then holds a trial, with a two-thirds majority required for conviction and removal from office.
Step-by-step explanation:
Steps of the Impeachment Process
The impeachment process in the United States involves several critical steps as outlined by the Constitution. These steps are designed to hold high-ranking officials, including presidents, accountable for 'Treason, Bribery, or other high Crimes and Misdemeanors.' Here's an overview of the process:
- A impeachment inquiry is launched by the House to investigate accusations against an official. This is an investigative stage to gather evidence and determine if there are grounds for impeachment.
- If the House concludes there is sufficient evidence, it will proceed to hold an impeachment vote. A simple majority in the House is required to impeach, or formally accuse, the official.
- The case then moves to the Senate for a trial. Here, the Senate holds a trial with senators serving as the jury and the chief justice of the Supreme Court presiding, in the case of a presidential impeachment. House members act as prosecutors.
- A two-thirds majority vote in the Senate is necessary for conviction. If convicted, the official is removed from office and may be barred from holding future offices.
It's important to note that impeachment itself does not remove an official from office; it is merely the statement of charges. Removal from office only occurs following a conviction in the Senate trial.