@jfmezei @steter @chris Another reason that it’s a notable thing to mention is that impeachment is such a rare occurrence (and removal even more so…it’s never happened in our history) and trump is the only pres ever to be impeached multiple times. As a result, it’s an important political and historical event, even without conviction in the Senate. Not sure if I’m explaining things well, I hope that helps. It’s a pretty complicated system.

@jfmezei @steter @chris it’s kind of like being charged or indicted. No matter the outcome, the historical record of your being charged or indicted remains. So the statement, “you have been charged with candy bar theft twice” is still factual, even with no conviction. In addition, the impeachment and removal process is not a criminal proceeding, it’s a political procedure, so it doesn’t follow the same rules/procedures as a criminal trial.

@jfmezei @steter @chris So impeachment is the first step, which leads to a trial, which can then lead to removal. Trump has been impeached twice, but not convicted, and therefore was not removed from office or barred from holding office again.

@jfmezei @steter @chris The House of Representatives brings articles of impeachment (basically bringing charges) against the president. Then they refer it to the Senate, which holds a trial. After the trial, the Senate votes to convict or not. If convicted, the president is removed from office and may also subsequently be barred from future federal office.