Unveiling the Power Behind the Vice Presidency

It’s Saturday, and I’m excited to dig into the critical role of the vice president as part of our ongoing civics lessons. I’m feeling a little sassy today after spending some time in my yard, trying to save a pumpkin plant from the gophers.

The vice presidency is often misunderstood, seen merely as the second-in-command, but there’s so much more to it. As we dive into this topic, I want to share things you may or may not know about this vital role. I was inspired to revisit this subject after listening to Rachel Maddow’s “Bagman” podcast, which offers a deep dive into one of U.S. history’s most scandalous vice presidencies.

The Importance of Experience in Government

The most important trait a vice president needs is experience—understanding how government works, which differs greatly from business. Government involves a healthy dose of command and control alongside a need to listen to and balance diverse voices. It’s not just about making decisions; it’s about making sure everyone’s voice is heard, even if it means hearing things you’d rather not hear. It can be exhausting, but ensuring all voices are included in the decision-making process is essential.

A good VP knows how to navigate this landscape, negotiate effectively, and maintain a thick skin in the face of criticism. They have to manage the tension between staying true to their principles and being pragmatic enough to get things done. This is why experience in government, rather than just business, is so crucial.

The Evolution of the Vice Presidency

The vice presidency has changed significantly over the centuries. What was once considered a mostly ceremonial role has evolved into one of substantial influence. The vice president presides over the Senate, casting tie-breaking votes when necessary. Since 1789, the VP has cast deciding votes 301 times. Kamala Harris has done so 33 times, mostly for judicial appointments and budget reconciliation. By contrast, Biden never had to break a tie during his tenure from 2009-2017.

The role of the vice president is deeply intertwined with the function of the Senate. In today’s polarized political environment, the VP’s tie-breaking vote can be the difference between a bill passing or failing. This makes the VP’s position not just ceremonial but crucial in shaping the legislative agenda.

The Critical Role of Judgment

A vice president’s role extends beyond just breaking ties; they’re also the first in line to assume the presidency if necessary. This was the case when Lyndon Johnson took over after JFK’s assassination and when Gerald Ford assumed the presidency following Nixon’s resignation. How a vice president uses their power is crucial, as seen in recent history with Mike Pence’s decision to certify the election results in 2020.

For a gripping account of how a vice president can abuse their power, I highly recommend Rachel Maddow’s “Bagman” podcast. In it, she explains how Spiro Agnew’s corrupt activities nearly went unchecked. It’s a stark reminder of how much power the vice president holds and the importance of accountability in our government.

Looking Ahead to the Impact of Vice Presidents

Tomorrow, we’ll explore more about the impact vice presidents have had throughout history, particularly those who have shaped the course of our nation. We’ll dive into their contributions, their failures, and the lessons we can learn from their tenures. The vice presidency may often be overlooked, but as we’ll see, it’s a position with the potential to change the trajectory of our country. So come back tomorrow to continue this exploration!

To-Do List:

1. Reflect on the Evolution: Consider how the vice presidency has evolved and its growing importance.
2. Evaluate Judgment: Consider the critical role of judgment in the vice presidency and how it impacts governance.
3. Come Back Tomorrow: Continue exploring the vice presidency and its influence on American history.