The White House has revealed there is no plan in place for succession of power should both President Donald Trump and Vice President Mike Pence contract the coronavirus and die.
If the worst happens, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo could possibly be sworn in as acting president. The Supreme Court would take up the legalities of succession.
Constitutional experts say Pelosi can’t be sworn in as president because she doesn’t fit the definition of “officer” as required in the Constitution.
The Constitution defines an officer as part of the executive branch. Pelosi is part of the legislative branch.
White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany told London’s DailyMail.com: “That’s not even something we’re addressing,” when asked what is the plan if both the president or vice president are incapacitated by the virus.
McEnany assured DailyMail.com: “We’re keeping the president healthy. We’re keeping the vice president healthy and you know they’re healthy at this moment and they’ll continue to be.”
She added: “I think that’s something all reporters should be celebrating and the American people as well.”
Supporters lined the road as President Trump arrived to tour medical equipment distributor Owens & Minor in Allentown, Pennsylvania on Thursday.
Trump did not wear a face mask. Many of his supporters were also bare-faced. All factory workers wore face masks and matching neon t-shirts.
