Today, Congressman Shri Thanedar (MI-13) introduced articles of impeachment against Donald J. Trump, President of the United States, citing a sweeping abuse of power, flagrant violations of the Constitution, and acts of tyranny that undermine American democracy and threaten the rule of law.
“Donald Trump has repeatedly demonstrated that he is unfit to serve as President and represents a clear and present danger to our nation’s constitution and our democracy,” said Rep. Thanedar. “His unlawful actions have subverted the justice system, violated the separation of powers, and placed personal power and self-interest above public service. We cannot wait for more damage to be done. Congress must act.”
The resolution includes seven articles of impeachment outlining a range of constitutional violations.
Can someone ELI5 what impeachment even achieves, and why it seemed to do nothing last time? Is it just a badge of dishonour?
An impeachment conviction results in removal from office. The previous impeachment proceedings did not result in a conviction.
(Edit for additional information: While an impeachment uses terms like “trial” and “conviction” it is not a judicial proceeding. It is entirely a legislative proceeding which is formatted to resemble a judicial one, but is not bound to judicial procedure and it also can not produce a criminal conviction or sentence.)
Ah, thanks for explaining!
It really makes no sense. Even if you succeed an impeachment, you can just get re-elected next term - as long as you didn’t use your two terms.
Only if you are not removed, impeachment is only one part of the removal process.
Wrong. You cannot run again after two successful elections.
And even this is looking increasingly irrelevant. Trump has another 3¾ years to ensure nothing is in his way for a 3rd, 4th, or even more terms. And with Republicans working to ensure a permanent Republican ascendancy, even voting will become a performative act; a thin veneer of legitimacy papering over useless theatrics and a predetermined outcome.
They will fail.