The Appointment of President Pro Tempore in the U.S. Senate: A Tradition or Formal Process?

The position of President Pro Tempore in the U.S. Senate is a role that carries considerable historical significance but is not without controversy. Does the tradition of this position lend it to automatic assignment, or is it subject to formal procedures?

Requirement for a Formal Vote

Contrary to popular belief, the appointment of the President Pro Tempore is not an automatic process. The senior senator of the majority party is typically designated to this role, with a few exceptions. However, this designation does require a formal vote. This ensures that the appointment is both legitimate and binding.

In theory, any senator could run for the position of President Pro Tempore, though in practice, this is unlikely since the position is traditionally given to the senior member of the majority party.

Key Traditions and Rules

The rules and traditions of the Senate have been carefully crafted to make the position of presiding officer relatively powerless. This is because senators have historically resented having their leader chosen for them. As a result, the presiding officer, while not completely powerless, is mostly an honorary role.

The Order of Presiding Officers

The order of serving in the position of presiding officer is as follows:

Vice President of the United States: The Vice President holds the highest presiding officer position. However, the Senate discourages the Vice President from wielding the gavel unless a specific reason exists, such as breaking a tie vote. President Pro Tempore: When the Vice President is absent, the current President Pro Tempore presides over the Senate. However, they are not usually the one to do so, as the position is often filled by a junior member of the majority party to familiarize them with Senate rules and traditions. Designated Additional Officials: A junior member of the majority party is typically chosen to preside over Senate sessions, allowing the President Pro Tempore to focus on other responsibilities.

Formal Processes and Customary Resignations

The formal process for appointing (or resigning) the President Pro Tempore involves a vote by the party caucus as well as the full Senate. While this vote is a mere formality, it underscores the importance of the position and ensures transparency in the process.

President Pro Tempore Emeritus: In the instance of a loss of the Senate majority, the Senate will designate a member of the minority party as President Pro Tempore Emeritus. This position does not come with any additional responsibilities but is a recognition of the former position's significance.

Historical Context and Specific Examples

For example, Senator Patrick Leahy of Vermont was a former President Pro Tempore and is currently the most senior member of the minority party. If he were to step down due to retirement or resignation, Senator Dianne Feinstein would become the most senior member of the minority. Despite holding this position, Senator Feinstein would not be designated as President Pro Tempore Emeritus, as she never actually held the title.

This system of traditions and formalities helps to balance the power and recognition within the Senate, ensuring that the position of President Pro Tempore remains a symbol of seniority and experience, even as the actual duties related to the role are limited.