On December 19th, 1998, a significant event in U.S. political history occurred when the U.S. House of Representatives impeached President Bill Clinton.
The Impeachment of President Bill Clinton on December 19, 1998
December 19th holds a notable place in recent U.S. history as the date in 1998 when the U.S. House of Representatives voted to impeach the 42nd President, Bill Clinton. This action marked only the second time in the nation's history that a sitting president was impeached by the House.
Charges Brought Against President Clinton
The impeachment proceedings stemmed from charges related to his conduct. The House specifically charged President Clinton with:
- Perjury: Accusations of lying under oath.
- Obstruction of Justice: Allegations of impeding a federal investigation.
The Senate's Acquittal
Following the House's vote, the impeachment process moved to the Senate for trial. Despite the House's charges, President Clinton was acquitted by the Senate the following month, allowing him to remain in office and complete his second term. An impeachment by the House does not automatically remove a president; a conviction by a two-thirds majority in the Senate is required for removal.
Key Details of the Impeachment
| Event | Date of House Action | Primary Charges | Subsequent Senate Action | Final Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Impeachment of Bill Clinton | December 19, 1998 | Perjury, Obstruction of Justice | Acquitted in Senate the following month | Clinton remained in office |
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