Definition
Impeachment is the constitutional mechanism for accusing and potentially removing federal officials, including the president, vice president, and judges, for treason, bribery, or other high crimes and misdemeanors.
Strictly speaking, impeachment is the act of formally charging an official. Removal from office follows only if a separate trial results in conviction. The two steps belong to different chambers of Congress.
Why it matters
How it works
The House of Representatives holds the sole power to impeach, deciding by majority vote whether to bring articles of impeachment. The Senate then conducts a trial and must convict by a two-thirds majority to remove the official.
The phrase high crimes and misdemeanors is not precisely defined, leaving Congress significant judgment over what conduct qualifies. The only penalties impeachment can impose are removal and disqualification from future office; criminal punishment is handled separately by the courts.