Wednesday: Law & Civics
Who presides over the impeachment trial of a U.S. President?
Pick One:
Hint: The role involves overseeing the trial in the Senate, ensuring it aligns with constitutional procedures… →
In the United States, the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court presides over the impeachment trial of a sitting president.
This role is mandated by the Constitution to ensure impartiality, as the Vice President, who usually presides over the Senate, has a conflict of interest due to their position in the presidential line of succession.
Impeachment trials are conducted in the Senate, following charges brought by the House of Representatives.
While the Chief Justice oversees the trial proceedings, it is the senators who serve as jurors and ultimately vote on whether to convict or acquit the president.
This process underscores the separation of powers and the checks and balances within the U.S. government.
Current Chief Justice, John Roberts