The Vice President of the United States has several roles and responsibilities, which are outlined in the U.S. Constitution and have evolved over time. Here are some of the key duties of the Vice President:
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President of the Senate: The Vice President is the President of the Senate and presides over Senate deliberations. They can only vote in the Senate in the case of a tie.
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Tie-breaking vote: The Vice President has the sole power to break a tie vote in the Senate.
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Electoral college: The Vice President presides over the receiving and counting of electoral ballots cast in presidential elections.
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Succession: The Vice President is ready to assume the Presidency if the President is unable to perform their duties due to death, resignation, or temporary incapacitation.
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Advising the President: Today, Vice Presidents serve as principal advisors to the President. They are a key presidential advisor, governing partner, and representative of the President.
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Cabinet member: The Vice President is a statutory member of the United States Cabinet and National Security Council and thus plays a significant role in executive government and national security matters.
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Informal roles: The Vice Presidents role also includes many visible, informal responsibilities, which vary depending on the relationship between the President and Vice President. These can include being a spokesperson for the administrations policies, adviser to the President, and symbol of American concern.
Kamala Harris is the current Vice President of the United States. She has worked in partnership with President Joe Biden to get America vaccinated, rebuild the economy, reduce child poverty, and pass an infrastructure law that will lift up communities that have been left behind. She has also played a key role in engaging world leaders and strengthening the nations alliances and partnerships.