The succession of the United States Presidency: historic evolution, regulations and practical application

Abstract

The succession of the United States presidency has undergone a significant evolution since its beginning with the first drafting of the Constitution, all the way up to the last reform introduced with the XXVth amendment, on the understanding that its content was not clear, giving rise to different interpretations whilst simultaneously marking a turning point in modern constitutionalism; Despite these new redactions and political tendencies of governing forces, the principle of presidential continuity is implicitly recognized in relation to the principle of continuity of political parties which have won elections and govern the United States in order to provide legal security to the American demographic and democratic institutions. It is clear that democratic principle combined with constitutional legitimacy govern the presidential order of succession.