Acting president or coordinating vice president
In the United States, the role of the Acting President or Coordinating Vice President is a temporary and ceremonial position that is filled when the President is unable to perform their duties. Here's a brief overview:
Acting President:
- The Acting President is the highest-ranking official in the executive branch who is next in line to the presidency.
- The Acting President assumes the duties and powers of the President when the President is:
- Unable to discharge their duties due to illness, injury, or absence.
- Temporarily incapacitated.
- Out of the country or unable to return to the United States.
- The Acting President serves until the President is able to resume their duties or until a new President is inaugurated.
- The Acting President does not have the same level of authority as the President and is not empowered to make major decisions or take significant actions without the approval of the President or Congress.
Coordinating Vice President:
- The Coordinating Vice President is a role that was established in 1973, following the resignation of President Richard Nixon.
- The Coordinating Vice President is responsible for coordinating the activities of the Vice President and other officials in the executive branch when the President is unable to perform their duties.
- The Coordinating Vice President does not have the same level of authority as the Acting President and is not empowered to make major decisions or take significant actions without the approval of the President or Congress.
- The Coordinating Vice President serves as a liaison between the Vice President and other officials in the executive branch, ensuring a smooth transition of power and continuity of government operations.
In summary, the Acting President is the highest-ranking official in the executive branch who assumes the duties and powers of the President when the President is unable to perform their duties, while the Coordinating Vice President is a role that coordinates the activities of the Vice President and other officials in the executive branch during a presidential vacancy.