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The first impeachment of a sitting cabinet member sets off a series of choreographed rituals that dates back to the impeachment of former President Andrew Johnson in 1868.

Once the articles of impeachment are delivered to the Senate, it would schedule a trial or vote to dismiss the charges.Credit...Anna Rose Layden for The New York Times

Feb. 13, 2024Updated 8:10 p.m. ET

Republican members of the House impeached Alejandro N. Mayorkas, the homeland security secretary, with a simple majority vote on Tuesday. It sets off a series of choreographed rituals that dates back to the impeachment of former President Andrew Johnson in 1868. Here’s a look at what happens next.

A ceremonial procession

Once the House approves two articles of impeachment laying out the accusations against Mr. Mayorkas as part of its oversight and investigatory responsibilities, they are then walked over to the Senate.

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The Senate as a court of impeachment for the trial of Andrew Johnson.Credit...Library of Congress

The day after President Johnson was impeached, in February 1868, the articles of impeachment were delivered to the Senate by Representative Thaddeus Stevens, Republican of Pennsylvania. Mr. Stevens was so ill that he had to be carried through the Capitol.

Once the articles are delivered, the Senate, acting as a High Court of Impeachment, would schedule a trial during which senators would consider evidence, hear witnesses and, ultimately, vote to acquit or convict. They could also vote to dismiss the charges.

The Senate trial

The House speaker names impeachment managers from the chamber who would be tasked with arguing the case against the impeached official, serving as the prosecution team in the Senate trial.

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