What is it called when voters remove an incumbent from office before the end of their term?

The process by which voters can remove an incumbent from office before the end of their term is known as recalling. A recall election allows citizens to vote on whether to remove an elected official from their position before the official's term has expired. This mechanism is typically initiated by gathering a specific number of signatures from registered voters on a petition. If enough valid signatures are collected, a recall election is held, giving voters the opportunity to decide the official's fate.

In contrast, impeachment refers to a formal charge of wrongdoing against a government official, which is usually pursued at the legislative level rather than directly by voters. A referendum involves voters deciding on a particular policy or law, rather than addressing individual officials. Restoration does not pertain to the removal of officials but rather to the reinstatement of positions or rights. These distinctions clarify why "recalling" is the correct term for the described process.