1. Removal from Office: If found guilty by a two-thirds vote in the Senate, the president is immediately removed from office. The vice president takes over as president until the next election.
2. Loss of Certain Privileges: A convicted president loses the right to hold any federal office in the future. This includes elected positions, appointed positions, and judicial positions.
3. Civil Penalties: The president may also face civil penalties, such as fines or imprisonment, if their actions constitute a violation of the law. Criminal charges may be filed by the Department of Justice or relevant state authorities.
4. Public Opinion: Public opinion plays a significant role in shaping the political consequences of impeachment. A president who is impeached may face a decline in popularity and support, which can impact their ability to govern effectively.
5. Presidential Legacy: Impeachment leaves a permanent mark on a president's legacy, as it signifies a substantial breakdown in their ability to command the respect and trust of the American people and their elected representatives.
6. Political Implications: Impeachment proceedings can have far-reaching political implications. They can lead to changes in political alliances, shifts in public opinion, and increased partisan divisions.
7. Historical Significance: Impeachments are rare and have occurred only a handful of times in American history. The proceedings themselves and their outcomes become significant historical markers, shaping the country's political narrative.
It's important to note that a president can also be impeached but not convicted, as occurred during the impeachment process against President Andrew Johnson in 1868. Additionally, a president may choose to resign before being impeached or may be exonerated by the Senate, as was the case with President Bill Clinton in 1998 and President Donald Trump in both 2019 and 2021.