American Constitution defines that the deputy immediately assumes in case of death, resignation or removal of the President
The US Constitution provides for a clear line of succession to ensure the country’s stability in case of death, resignation or removal of the acting president.
In the current term, this means that if something happens to Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance immediately assumes the presidency and continues to the end of the period, scheduled for 2029.
Donald Trump, former US President (Photo: Reproduction/ Instagram)
Succession line
After the vice president, the Order continues with the Mayor of Representatives, currently the Republican Mike Johnson, and then the Senate President Pro Tempore. If necessary, state ministers also enter the list, starting with the Secretary of State.
Historical examples
This rule has already been applied at remarkable moments of American history:
In 1963, after the murder of John F. Kennedy, deputy Lyndon B. Johnson became president.
In 1974, with the resignation of Richard Nixon in the Watergate Scandal, Vice Gerald Ford took over.
Why does it matter
Presidential succession is one of the pillars of US democracy. It ensures that even in the midst of crises or tragedies, there is no vacuum of power and the government continues to work.
In the current case, attention is at JD Vance, Trump’s deputy. Young, conservative and seen as a possible political successor, he would have the challenge of leading the country if he had to take the presidency unexpectedly.
