Vice President of the United States

The Vice President of the United States is the second-highest executive official of the United States government, the person who is, in the words of Adlai Stevenson, "a heartbeat from the presidency." As first in the presidential line of succession, the Vice President becomes the new President of the United States upon the death, resignation, or removal by impeachment and subsequent conviction of the President. Eight Vice Presidents have assumed the Presidency upon the death of the President, and one upon the President's resignation.

Vice Presidents of the United States and Presidents of the Senate

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Prior to ratification of the 25th Amendment in 1967, no provision existed for filling a vacancy in the office of Vice President; as a result, the position was left vacant 16 times until the next ensuing election and inauguration. Since the adoption of the 25th Amendment, the office has been vacant twice while awaiting confirmation of the new Vice President by both houses of Congress.

Related Topics:
25th Amendment - 1967 - Congress

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Notes:

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1 Arriving in New York City before President-elect George Washington, Adams was sworn as Vice President nine days before the President.

Related Topics:
New York City - George Washington

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2 Died in office

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3 Resigned from office

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4 Succeeded to Presidency upon death or resignation of President

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5 On his deathbed when scheduled to be sworn in, King received special dispensation from Congress to be sworn in twenty days later, while attempting to recover in Havana, Cuba.

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6 Became Vice President under provisions of 25th Amendment

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7 Acted as President under provisions of 25th Amendment

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