Book Review: A Citizen’s Guide to Impeachment, by Barbara Radnofsky

Abstract

High crimes and misdemeanors. We hear this phrase—outlined in the U.S. Constitution—used by politicians and news media when discussing impeachment, but what conduct is included in high crimes and misdemeanors? Must it be a serious crime? A misdemeanor? What is the process surrounding this phrase? A Citizen’s Guide to Impeachment, by Barbara Radnofsky, provides useful guidance in understanding the impeachment process, its historical background, and key lessons from the formal impeachment proceedings held throughout U.S. history. As the title suggests, the book is intended to serve as a “guide for citizens in a participatory government,” and it meets that goal in fine fashion.