A Cold War Dilemma
In the 1960s, the Cold War heightened concerns about what would happen if the U.S. president became incapacitated. After John F. Kennedy’s assassination in 1963, the need for a clear process to replace a disabled or deceased president became more urgent.
The 25th Amendment’s Creation
Congress responded by passing the 25th Amendment in 1965. It was ratified in 1967. The amendment clarified that the vice president would become president if the president died, resigned, or was removed from office. It also established procedures for replacing a vice president and outlined what to do if a president was unable to fulfill duties.
First Use in 1973
The amendment was first used in 1973 when Vice President Spiro Agnew resigned. President Richard Nixon nominated Gerald Ford as the new vice president, and Congress confirmed him.
Nixon’s Resignation
The amendment was tested again in 1974 when Nixon resigned. Ford became president, and he selected Nelson Rockefeller as his vice president, using the process outlined in the amendment.
The 25th Amendment: A Cold War Solution to Presidential Uncertainty 📜
A Cold War Dilemma
In the 1960s, the Cold War heightened concerns about what would happen if the U.S. president became incapacitated. After John F. Kennedy's assassination in 1963, the need for a clear… pic.twitter.com/VQkfAIT69M— Detective Tiger's Stories (@TigerDetective) October 15, 2024