I.

Introduction

Vice President of the United States, second highest executive officer of the United States government, after the President of the United States (see United States (Government): Executive). The vice president assumes the top position if the president dies in office, resigns, becomes unable to do his or her job, or is removed from office through impeachment. The vice president also leads commissions and manages special projects created by the president. In addition to these official responsibilities, the vice president’s position as a potential leader of the nation makes the office one of great importance. Nine vice presidents have assumed the presidency upon the death or resignation of the president.