Vice President of the United States

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Harry S. Truman

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Electoral map 2012-2020

Vice President of the United States is a significant political position and the second-highest executive office in the United States. The role of the Vice President is multifaceted, encompassing both executive and legislative responsibilities. Established by the United States Constitution, the Vice President's primary duty is to succeed the President of the United States in case of death, resignation, or removal from office. Additionally, the Vice President serves as the President of the United States Senate, with the power to cast a tie-breaking vote in the Senate.

Constitutional Basis

The office of the Vice President is defined in Article II, Section 1 of the United States Constitution and further detailed in the Twelfth Amendment and Twenty-fifth Amendment. The Twelfth Amendment, ratified in 1804, refined the electoral process for both the President and Vice President, ensuring that electors cast separate ballots for each office. The Twenty-fifth Amendment, ratified in 1967, clarified the procedures for presidential succession and the filling of a vacancy in the office of the Vice President.

Election and Term

The Vice President is elected alongside the President through the Electoral College system. Candidates for the presidency typically select their running mates, or candidates for the vice presidency, during their campaign. The Vice President serves a term of four years, with no limit on the number of terms they can serve, provided they are elected alongside a serving President.

Duties and Responsibilities

While the Constitution provides a broad outline, the specific duties and responsibilities of the Vice President have evolved over time. Key roles include:

• Serving as President of the Senate and casting tie-breaking votes
• Participating in the Cabinet and National Security Council meetings
• Undertaking diplomatic and ceremonial duties as assigned by the President
• Assuming the presidency in the event of the President's death, resignation, or removal from office

Office and Residence

The official workplace of the Vice President is the West Wing of the White House, with the Vice President's ceremonial office located in the Eisenhower Executive Office Building. The official residence of the Vice President is the Number One Observatory Circle, located on the grounds of the United States Naval Observatory in Washington, D.C.

Historical Significance

The role of the Vice President has grown in importance and influence over the years. Initially considered a minor role, modern Vice Presidents often serve as key advisors to the President and are involved in significant policy decisions and negotiations. The position has served as a stepping stone to the presidency for several individuals.

List of Vice Presidents

The United States has had 49 Vice Presidents, from John Adams, who served under President George Washington, to the current Vice President. The office has seen a wide range of personalities and political figures, each bringing their own influence to the role and the administration they served.