What Happens if President Joe Biden Resigns?
In the wake of Donald Trump's victory in the presidential election last week, some Democrats have suggested that President Joe Biden resign, making Vice President Kamala Harris the acting president during the transition period.
Harris lost the Electoral College majority and popular vote to Trump. All the state races were called by Saturday night, and Trump won 312 Electoral College votes compared to Harris' 226. On Wednesday, the New York Times reported that 96 percent of votes have been counted, with Harris garnering around 72.35 million votes and Trump 75.55 million.
What Happens if President Joe Biden Resigns?
The president of the United States can resign at any time. To do so, he must send a signed letter to the secretary of state. If Biden were to resign, he would address the letter to Secretary of State Antony Blinken .
The U.S. Constitution outlines presidential succession if the president resigns, is removed, or dies. The 25th Amendment reads: "In case of the removal of the President from office or of his death or resignation, the Vice President shall become President."
Therefore, if Biden resigns, Harris would immediately assume the presidency.
Harris, sworn in as vice president of the United States on January 20, 2021, would become the first female president of the United States if this were to happen. Her term would continue for the remainder of Biden's original term until January 20, 2025.
