What body can impeach federal officials?

The impeachment of federal officials is a power specifically granted to the House of Representatives. This process is outlined in the U.S. Constitution, which delegates the responsibility of bringing charges against federal officials, including the President, to the House. The House has the exclusive authority to initiate impeachment proceedings, and if a simple majority votes in favor of impeachment, the official is formally charged. Following this, the process moves to the Senate, which is responsible for the trial and ultimate decision on whether to remove the official from office.

The authority lies fundamentally with the House of Representatives as part of the checks and balances established to prevent abuses of power. This structure ensures that the will of the people, reflected in their elected House members, plays an essential role in the impeachment process. Therefore, the House not only initiates this significant constitutional process but also represents a democratic check on the actions of federal officials.