Powers of the VP Flashcards
How many powers does the constitution give to the VP?
5
What is the first power?
He is the presiding officer of the Senate but this is a function that the VP rarely performs. The senate usually deputes junior members of its chamber to chair debates.
What is the second power?
VP is granted the power to break a tie in the Senate. This is usually the only reason that the VP will attend the chambers.
*Biden was the first VP who never cast a tie breaking vote in the whole 8 years. But Mike Pence cast his first tie breaking vote within the first month of taking office.
What is the third power?
VP is given the task of counting then announcing the result of the Electoral College votes.
*In 2001, outgoing VP Gore had to announce his own defeat in the previous Novembers election and in 2013 VP Biden announced his successful re-election alongside Obama.
What is the fourth power?
VP becomes president upon the death, resignation or removal of the President from office.
*This has happened on 9 occasions; 4 times following natural deaths and one time following a resignation.
What is the fifth power?
To become acting President if the President is declared or declares himself disabled. This is a provision of the 25th amendment.
*The power has been used 3 times with the most recent being President George W Bush required sedation in order to undergo a colonoscopy. Cheney was acting President for 2 hours.
