Final answer:
Three impeachable offenses specified in Article II, section 4 of the U.S. Constitution are Treason, Bribery, and high Crimes and Misdemeanors, which are grounds for the impeachment of high-ranking officials, such as the President and Vice President.
Step-by-step explanation:
Article II, section 4 of the United States Constitution states that impeachable offenses include Treason, Bribery, or other high Crimes and Misdemeanors. These provisions are integral to the checks and balances system that governs the conduct of high-ranking officials, ensuring accountability and adherence to the law. Treason is the only specific crime defined in the Constitution, reflecting its gravity, while the terms 'Bribery' and 'high Crimes and Misdemeanors' allow for the impeachment of officials who engage in serious misconduct or abuse of power.
It is critical to note that the House of Representatives holds the power to impeach, and the Senate is granted the authority to conduct a trial and convict. Although several presidents have faced impeachment proceedings, such as Andrew Johnson and Bill Clinton, none have been convicted and removed from office by the Senate. The term 'high Crimes and Misdemeanors' has been subject to interpretation, but generally covers a wide range of offenses that betray the trust and responsibility vested in a civil officer.