Civic Register
| 11.15.17

House Democrats Introduce Articles of Impeachment

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What’s the story?

Six Democrats announced they’re filing multiple articles of impeachment against President Donald Trump.

Rep. Steve Cohen of Tennessee is leading the effort, telling reporters, "I said three months ago that I would be introducing articles of impeachment" over Trump’s controversial comments about “both sides” being responsible for the violence in Charlottesville, Virginia.

Cohen told reporters that he and his five colleagues will be introducing five articles of impeachment against Trump, alleging obstruction of justice (by firing FBI Director James Comey), violations of both the foreign and domestic emoluments clause, undermining the federal judiciary, and undermining the freedom of the press.

Cohen admitted, however:

"I don’t expect the House Judiciary Committee, which is operated like a branch of the administration, to have hearings."

This is the third effort to impeach the President — articles were also filed in July and October. And in February, a top Democrat on the House Judiciary Committee filed a preliminary impeachment inquiry.

Top Democratic leaders remain opposed to attempts to impeach the President.

How impeachment works — in words and pictures

Whether you’re a visual or verbal learner, Countable’s got you covered. Either read the following text or click on our video explainer to learn how impeachment works…

Words

Impeachment involves the levying of charges against a government official who has committed "treason, bribery, or other high crimes and misdemeanors." The indictment comes from the House, and if a majority of lawmakers support impeachment the case advances to the Senate.

The Senate then begins a trial with witnesses and cross-examinations, and a two-thirds majority is required to convict an official. In the event of a conviction, the official is immediately removed from office and could be barred from holding office in the future or face criminal prosecution.

Pictures

What do you think?

Should the third time be a charm? Should Trump be impeached? Does the President meet the requirements for impeachment? Hit Take Action, tell your reps, then share your thoughts below.

— Josh Herman

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(Photo Credit: BenThomasPhoto / iStockphoto)