What does it mean to accuse government officials of misconduct while in office?

Accusing government officials of misconduct while they are in office refers to the process of impeachment. Impeachment is a formal mechanism used by legislative bodies to remove an official from their position for committing offenses such as bribery, treason, or other high crimes and misdemeanors. The process typically involves an investigation and a vote by the legislative body to determine whether there is sufficient evidence to warrant the removal of the official from office.

This term specifically captures the unique political process established for holding officials accountable, allowing the legislature to address serious breaches of trust or misconduct without going through the criminal court system. Understanding impeachment is crucial as it highlights the checks and balances designed to maintain integrity within government institutions.