What Is Impeachment?
Impeachment is a constitutional process in which the U.S. House of Representatives brings charges against a federal official, and the Senate holds a trial. It is an American crime story in the sense that it involves alleged abuses of public office, not ordinary criminal law. The Constitution defines impeachment for treason, bribery, or other high crimes and misdemeanors.
How the Process Works
The House Judiciary Committee typically investigates and drafts articles of impeachment. If the full House votes with a simple majority, the official is impeached. The case then moves to the Senate, where a two-thirds vote is required to convict and remove the official from office. The Senate may also bar the person from holding future federal office.
Why Impeachment Matters for Markets and Policy
Impeachment can create political uncertainty that affects financial markets, especially when it involves a sitting president. Investors watch for shifts in fiscal policy, regulation, and trade strategy during prolonged political crises. While impeachment itself is a political tool, its outcome can influence economic expectations and risk sentiment.
For a detailed timeline of major impeachment proceedings, see the History.com impeachment overview.
