Democracy in America, Volume 1 by Alexis De Tocqueville

Chapter Summary: Definition of political jurisdiction-What is understood by political jurisdiction in France, in England, and in the United States-In America the political judge can only pass sentence on public officers-He more frequently passes a sentence of removal from office than a penalty-Political jurisdiction as it exists in the United States is, notwithstanding its mildness, and perhaps in consequence of that mildness, a most powerful instrument in the hands of the majority.

I understand, by political jurisdiction, that temporary right of pronouncing a legal decision with which a political body may be invested.