The Vice President is the second-highest executive officer in the federal government with two constitutional duties. First, the Vice President presides over the Senate and casts tie-breaking votes when senators divide equally on legislation or procedural motions. This makes the VP a key player when Senate majorities are narrow.
Second, the Vice President assumes the presidency if the President dies, resigns, is removed, or becomes unable to perform duties. Nine vice presidents have succeeded to the presidency. The 25th Amendment clarified succession procedures and established processes for handling presidential disability. The Vice President can voluntarily transfer power to themselves temporarily by written declaration, and can participate in declaring the President unable to perform duties, making the VP Acting President unless two-thirds of both chambers reject the disability determination. Modern vice presidents also lead major initiatives, represent the President diplomatically, and serve as key policy advisors.
The Vice President's tie-breaking vote can decide major legislation. With narrow Senate majorities, the VP becomes extraordinarily powerful on close votes. The succession role also means vice presidents matter for national security and continuity.
People often think the Vice President is powerless except for succession. In practice, tie-breaking votes give the VP significant legislative leverage when Senate majorities are narrow.
The Vice President's tie-breaking vote can decide major legislation. With narrow Senate majorities, the VP becomes extraordinarily powerful on close votes. The succession role also means vice presidents matter for national security and continuity.
People often think the Vice President is powerless except for succession. In practice, tie-breaking votes give the VP significant legislative leverage when Senate majorities are narrow.