US President Donald Trump on Wednesday dismissed concerns about a possible impeachment following major setbacks for his Republican Party in US midterm elections. Trump asserted that he was not worried about such a move and warned that it could destroy the Democratic Party. His statement comes amid speculation that Democrats' may use their improved position in Congress to initiate another impeachment effort against Trump.
On being asked by reporters whether he feared impeachment, Trump replied that he was "not even a little bit" concerned. He also questioned why Democrats would pursue such action, asking whether it would be for "having a successful country."
Impeachment Process Explained
Impeachment is the constitutional process through which Congress can bring formal charges against a federal official, including the president, over alleged wrongdoing. Under the US Constitution, a president can face impeachment for treason, bribery, or other serious offences described as high crimes and misdemeanours.
According to the US government's website, the process involves two stages, with the House of Representatives and the Senate playing separate roles.
Role Of House Of Representatives
The House of Representatives has the sole authority to bring impeachment charges against a president. The process begins when a lawmaker introduces an impeachment resolution or when the House approves an investigation into allegations of misconduct.
After this, the House Judiciary Committee examines the allegations and decides whether formal charges should be presented to the full House. The articles (formal charges) are then put to a vote. If a simple majority of House members votes in favour of at least one article, the president is officially impeached.
What Happens In Senate?
After impeachment by the House, the case moves to the Senate, which then conducts the trial, including examining the evidence, hearing arguments from the prosecutor and considering the president's defence. To convict and remove the president, at least two-thirds of senators present must vote in favour. Also, the Chief Justice of the US Supreme Court presides over the proceedings when a sitting president is impeached.
How Much Control Do Democrats Have In Senate?
As per rule, if all 100 senators participate, 67 votes are required for conviction. According to the latest figures after the US midterm elections, Democrats have secured 54 seats in the Senate and are projected to win 254 seats in the House. The party gained control of the Senate after flipping seven seats previously held by Republicans. Republicans have 44 seats, while the remaining two seats are held by independent senators.
While the Democrats now have a Senate majority, it still falls below the 67 votes needed to convict Trump if all senators vote. This means that while Democrats may have greater power to pursue investigations and initiate impeachment proceedings, removing Trump would remain difficult until a Senate majority is there.
You May Also Like To Watch: