Which of the following best describes the process of impeachment?

The process of impeachment primarily begins with an accusation that leads to a formal investigation, making this answer the most accurate choice. Impeachment refers to the process by which a sitting president, vice president, or other federal officials can be charged with misconduct. This process is initiated in the House of Representatives, where articles of impeachment are drawn up based on allegations of wrongdoing, usually related to "high crimes and misdemeanors," as outlined in the Constitution.

After these articles are approved by a simple majority in the House, the process moves to the Senate, where a trial occurs to determine whether the official should be removed from office. This emphasizes that the initial step is indeed an accusation, which triggers the investigation and subsequent proceedings.

The other options do not accurately capture the essence of the impeachment process. Removal from office after a trial is a potential outcome but not the definition of impeachment itself. A trial in the Supreme Court is not part of the impeachment process, as the trial takes place in the Senate. Finally, an executive order to resign is unrelated to impeachment, as it does not involve formal charges or a legislative process. Thus, understanding that impeachment begins with an accusation leading to investigation clarifies its foundational role in the government's accountability mechanisms.