What is impeachment?

Impeachment is specifically defined as the process by which a sitting President (or other federal officials) is charged with misconduct. This legal process typically involves the House of Representatives drafting and voting on articles of impeachment, which formally accuse the President of "high crimes and misdemeanors." If the House approves these articles, the Senate then holds a trial to determine whether to convict and remove the President from office.

The significance of impeachment lies in its role as a check on executive power, ensuring that the President is held accountable for actions deemed unacceptable or unlawful in the scope of their duties. This process reflects the balance of power established by the Constitution, allowing Congress to act if a President abuses their position.

Other options describe different processes or concepts. For example, electing a new President is handled through elections, not impeachment. The removal of federal judges involves a separate impeachment process distinctly applicable to the judiciary, and passing a constitutional amendment follows its own defined procedure that does not relate to impeachment.