Nancy Pelosi is initiating legislation whereby the Vice-President and a body such as the Congress can deem a President unfit to fulfil the duties of their office. Although the legislation has been triggered by the news of President Trump’s positive test for COVID-19, Pelosi insists that this is not targeted at Trump, but at future presidents who may be unlikely to pass on their powers when appropriate.
Ratified in 1967, the 25th Amendment defines the process for the transfer of power in the case of a President’s death or incapacity. With other top administration officials testing positive for the virus, there has been a public interest concern regarding the transfer of power in the case of Trump becoming seriously ill.
Pelosi has been increasingly critical of Trump, implying that his medical treatment may be responsible for his “altered state”. The President retorted by suggesting “Crazy Nancy” is the one who “should be under observation.” Since the House is out of session until after Election Day, there will be no progress during this term of the presidency. However, the Democrats may be preparing for the possibility of Trump’s second term in office.
Written by Sufia Jafri
Artwork by Zara Masood
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