state of the union
President Dirk?
By Sharon Fisher, 1-28-08
By this time tomorrow, former Idaho Governor Dirk Kempthorne could be President.
It’s not likely. But it could happen.
How?
During the State of the Union speech, during a joint session of Congress, one member of the President’s Cabinet elects to sit out the speech. In the event that some tragedy strikes the room, that one member of the Cabinet can provide continuity of government.
Well, this year it’s Kempthorne’s turn, according to Tim Russert on NBC. The former Governor left office two years ago to become Secretary of the Interior.
So for tonight, Kempthorne is a heartbeat away—what some people might say is the closest he’ll ever get to the Presidency.
It isn’t clear whether Kempthorne was assigned or volunteered.
Like this story? Get more! Sign up for our free newsletters.
Like to receive our print magazine, The New West? Click here for free subscription information.
Comments
Be the first to comment on this article. Please complete the form below.