High Crimes and Misdemeanors

This indispensable work traces impeachment from its bloody origins in medieval England, to its adoption in the Constitution, and through 250 years of American experience culminating in the two impeachments of Donald Trump. Frank O. Bowman III tells the stories, human and political, of nobles, commoners, colonists, judges, legislators, cabinet officers, and Presidents who have faced impeachment. He demonstrates that the practice was designed to be a flexible tool, informed by history, and adaptable to the needs of any age. The first edition was read by Democrats and Republicans and cited extensively by the advocates in both Trump impeachments. In this second edition, Bowman expands the first edition's deep historical and constitutional analysis. He also draws on his involvement in both Trump impeachments as a congressional consultant and frequent commentator, to assess Trump's aberrant presidency, his impeachments, and whether impeachment remains a useful tool against an overreaching president.