How many votes are needed for conviction in an impeachment trial in Arizona?

In the context of impeachment trials in Arizona, a two-thirds vote is required for conviction. This aligns with the seriousness of impeachment proceedings, which are designed to hold public officials accountable for misconduct. The two-thirds requirement ensures that a significant consensus is achieved before a conviction occurs, reflecting the gravity of removing an official from office.

This distinction is important as it underscores the intention to maintain a balance between authority and accountability, requiring more than just a simple majority to effect such a consequential decision. Other voting thresholds, like a simple majority or quarter vote, would not provide the same level of consensus needed in such critical situations. Similarly, while a three-fourths vote may seem to indicate greater consensus, the Arizona Constitution specifically stipulates a two-thirds majority for impeachment convictions.