Which body has the power to impeach federal officials?

Which body has the power to impeach federal officials?

• A. The Senate
• B. The House of Representatives
• C. The Supreme Court
• D. The President

Answer: (B)

Impeachment power starts in the House of Representatives. The Constitution assigns the responsibility to bring impeachment charges to the House, so they can formally accuse a federal official of “high crimes and misdemeanors.” If a majority in the House votes to impeach, the process moves to a trial in the Senate. There, the Senators act as the court and can convict with a two-thirds vote, which results in removal from office and may also bar the individual from future office. The Senate does not initiate impeachment, and the Supreme Court has no role in bringing charges. The President does not initiate or decide impeachment either. This setup creates a two-step check: the House can start proceedings, and the Senate provides a more deliberate verdict.