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Educating Young People about the Constitution

Presidents and the Constitution, Vol. 2 Impeachment and the Constitution: Scholar Essay

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Presidents and the Constitution Resources


In order to impeach a President of the United States members of Congress must try him for high crimes and misdemeanors The Constitution, however, does not define high crimes and misdemeanors. What does that phrase mean to you? What does it mean to your friends? Directions: Read Dr. Stuart Leibigers essay. Underline or highlight the facts you think are important.

Impeachment and the Constitution


Review the Impeachment Process established in the Constitution: 1. Formal accusation of high crimes and misdemeanors by the House of Representatives 2. 3. 4. Trial before the Senate with the Chief Justice presiding Conviction and removal from office only if at least two-thirds of Senators find the President guilty If convicted, the Presidents punishment can be only removal from office and ineligibility to serve in any future position in the federal government. Once removed from office, the former President could still be brought to trial in the ordinary courts for any offenses he may have committed.
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Impeachment and the Constitution


Activity Complete the Document Constitutional Connection: Impeachment and the Constitution

Impeachment and the Constitution


Activity Discuss the following: Was there general agreement on each scenario? If not, why? What sources should be used to determine if a presidential action warrants impeachment?
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