The practice of tapping a “survivor” from the presidential line of succession during big events is believed to date back to the Cold War. This unique tradition has been a part of American politics for decades, and it continues to play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and stability of our nation during times of crisis.
During the Cold War, the United States and the Soviet Union were locked in a tense and dangerous standoff. The fear of a nuclear attack loomed over the country, and the government had to be prepared for any potential threat. As a result, the concept of a “survivor” was born.
A survivor is a designated individual from the presidential line of succession who is kept in a secure location during major events, such as the State of the Union address or the presidential inauguration. This person is chosen based on their position in the line of succession and their ability to take over the presidency in case of a catastrophic event.
The idea behind this practice is to ensure that there is always someone ready to step in as the leader of the country, even in the worst-case scenario. This tradition has been carried on through the years, and it has proven to be a vital part of our national security strategy.
One of the most notable instances of a survivor being tapped was during the 9/11 terrorist attacks. As the country was in a state of shock and chaos, Vice President Dick Cheney was immediately taken to a secure location, and he was designated as the survivor. This decision was made to ensure that there was a clear chain of command and that the government could continue to function in the face of such a devastating event.
The survivor tradition has also been utilized during other major events, such as the presidential inauguration and the State of the Union address. These occasions bring together the entire government, including the president, vice president, and other high-ranking officials. In case of an attack or any other emergency, the survivor is kept in a secure location to ensure the continuity of government.
The practice of tapping a survivor has also evolved over the years. In the past, the designated survivor was chosen solely based on their position in the line of succession. However, in recent years, there has been a shift towards selecting someone from a different branch of government. This ensures that there is a diverse representation of leaders in the event of a crisis.
Some may argue that the survivor tradition is unnecessary and a waste of resources. However, the importance of having a designated survivor cannot be overstated. In times of crisis, having a clear chain of command and a designated leader is crucial for maintaining stability and ensuring the safety of our nation.
Moreover, the survivor tradition also serves as a reminder of the resilience and strength of our democracy. Despite any challenges or threats, our government has always been able to adapt and continue functioning, thanks in part to the survivor tradition.
In conclusion, the practice of tapping a survivor from the presidential line of succession during big events is a vital part of our national security strategy. It has been a tradition since the Cold War and continues to play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and stability of our nation. As we move forward, it is important to recognize the significance of this practice and continue to uphold it in the face of any potential threats.
