Instructions for Vice President in Case of Emergency
In a recent podcast, Deputy White House Chief of Staff Sebastian Gorka revealed that President Trump has left specific instructions for Vice President J.D. Vance, tucked away in the Oval Office, in case something happens to him.
Gorka mentioned, “I have a letter in my resolution desk drawer in case something happens to the vice president.” His comments were made on the “Pod Force One” podcast this Wednesday.
Trump has faced serious threats to his safety, including a troubling assassination attempt during the White House Correspondents’ Dinner not long ago. This has raised alarm over his security and the potential for increased violence from political opposition.
Gorka also raised the possibility that foreign entities could target Trump during an important summit in Beijing.
Gorka expressed admiration for Trump, saying, “Everyone wants to be recognized by this man. This is the most powerful man we’ve seen since someone like Eisenhower.” He added that any actions harming Trump’s reputation would counteract the goals of those in his circle.
He reiterated, “We have protocols, believe me. It’s not something I can discuss, but we have protocols” in relation to the letter he mentioned. Responding to inquiries about Gorka’s revelation, a White House press secretary referred to Trump’s comments from earlier this year, where he indicated he had “very firm instructions” should anything happen to him, particularly concerning threats from Iran.
As outlined in the Presidential Succession Act of 1947, the vice president would step into the presidency should anything happen to the sitting president. The line of succession continues with the Speaker of the House and the President pro tempore of the Senate, followed by eligible Cabinet members.
Trump has previously stated that if he were in danger, he would take decisive action, insisting, “No matter what happens, they will be wiped off the face of this earth.” This exemplifies the high stakes involved in the current political landscape.
