constitution-additional-amendments-amendment-xxv-section-3

The Constitution of the United States of America

Additional Amendments, Amendment XXV, Section 3

Introduction:

The 25th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution addresses presidential succession and disability. Section 3 specifically outlines the procedure for the President to voluntarily transfer power to the Vice President. This occurs when the President determines they are unable to fulfill their duties, typically due to medical reasons. The President must provide a written declaration to the President pro tempore of the Senate and the Speaker of the House, after which the Vice President assumes the role of Acting President until the President is able to resume their responsibilities.

This section ensures a clear process for maintaining governmental continuity in times of presidential incapacity.

Actual Text:

“Whenever the President transmits to the President pro tempore of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives his written declaration that he is unable to discharge the powers and duties of his office, and until he transmits to them a written declaration to the contrary, such powers and duties shall be discharged by the Vice President as Acting President. ”