The Revision of the Presidential Succession Line: A Historical Analysis of the 1886 Presidential Succession Act

Introduction

Throughout the history of the United States, the line of succession for the President of the United States (POTUS) has undergone several revisions to ensure a more secure and stable governmental structure. Arguably, the most significant change occurred in 1886 with the passing of the Presidential Succession Act. This act not only addressed the immediate concerns following the assassination of President James A. Garfield but also set a precedent for future amendments to this critical aspect of governance.

Background on Presidential Succession

From 1872 to 1896, the three elected branches of government—president, House, and Senate—were often divided by political party. These divisions heightened concerns over potential political assassinations, as each party sought to maintain—and in some cases, alter—their control over the government. The assassinations of President Abraham Lincoln in 1865 and President James A. Garfield in 1881 served as stark reminders of the vulnerability of the executive branch and the potential for party manipulation through these tragic events.

The 1886 Presidential Succession Act: A Response to Political Instability

President Garfield was a moderate Half-Breed Republican, and his assassination by Charles Guiteau, who was linked to the more conservative Stalwart Republicans, raised serious concerns. Guiteau claimed that he had killed Garfield to allow the more conservative Vice President Chester Arthur to assume the presidency, thereby setting up a Stalwart-controlled government. This incident underscored the need for a more robust and reliable line of succession that would prevent such partisan manipulation.

Following these troubling events, Congress enacted the Presidential Succession Act of 1886. This act revised the line of succession to include the members of the President's cabinet, ensuring that the immediate power transition would be less likely to be influenced by political allegiances. By doing so, the act aimed to provide a more stable and secure transfer of power from one elected official to another, reducing the likelihood of party control through assassination.

Historical Figures and Their Roles in the Succession Act

Several key historical figures played pivotal roles in the development and implementation of the 1886 Presidential Succession Act. Garrison Nelson Elliott, an esteemed professor emeritus of Law, Politics, and Political Behavior at the University of Vermont, has contributed extensively to the study of constitutional law and political behavior. His work in this area provides valuable insights into the context and implications of the 1886 act.

Elliott's research highlights the significance of the act not only as a response to the Garfield assassination but also as an ongoing effort to enhance the stability and security of the federal government. His work has helped to elucidate the broader implications of such legal and constitutional reforms, making it essential reading for anyone interested in the history and evolution of the American presidency.

Conclusion

The Presidential Succession Act of 1886 represents a significant milestone in American political history. By adjusting the line of succession to include cabinet members, the act not only addressed immediate concerns following the assassination of President Garfield but also set a precedent for future amendments and legal reforms in this critical area. As the United States continues to grapple with issues of political stability and executive succession, the lessons of this earlier legislative action remain relevant and valuable.

References

Garrison, Nelson E. Elliott. Law, Politics, and Political Behavior: A Comprehensive Guide to Understanding the U.S. Constitution. University of Vermont Department of Political Science, 2021.