Why was the attempt to remove Federalist Justice Samuel Chase from office significant?
A) It led the Senate to institute confirmation hearings for judicial appointments.
B) It convinced federal judges not to make public speeches.
C) It caused a serious division in the Democratic-Republican party.
D) It helped preserve the Supreme Court's independence.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The attempt to remove Federalist Justice Samuel Chase from office was significant because it helped preserve the Supreme Court's independence. President Thomas Jefferson targeted Chase for impeachment because of Chase's political leanings and his decisions on the bench. However, the Senate ultimately acquitted Chase, which set a precedent for the independence of the judiciary and the idea that judges should not be easily removed from their positions for political reasons.

Why Was the Attempt to Remove Federalist Justice Samuel Chase