Uncertainties of Presidential Disability and Succession
Subtitle: Living Dangerously
Publisher: Lexington Books/Fortress Academic
Published: 2015
Language: eng
Number of pages: 216
ISBN-13: 9781498514712
Subjects: Presidents, united states, succession; United states, constitution
Description: This work begins by examining the fascinating history of presidential disability and succession, an issue that has impacted our nation{u2019}s highest office since the very beginning. After highlighting the reoccurring nature of this problem, it then provides an analysis of the alarming state of our current disability and succession guidelines, many of which are dangerously outdated, especially when it comes to the threat of terrorism. It then explores these flaws, specifically the glaring problems associated with including members of Congress in the line of succession. Along with questions concerning suitability and preparedness, statistics detailing the partisan composition of Congress over the last half-century illustrate that a sudden shift in party control of the presidency is not only possible, but likely. Finally, it concludes by highlighting an inherent flaw in a line of succession in which every member is located in one small area that happens to be the most attractive target for a would-be terrorist. While the issues explored in this work have been present for more than a half-century, the combination of an increased partisan divide between the executive and legislative branches, as well as the dangers of terrorist attack, combine to require immediate action. -- From Amazon's website.