The Role of the Vice President in Government and Beyond

The vice presidency is often misunderstood. While the vice president may sometimes seem like a supporting act, it is actually a vital office with constitutional duties, political influence, and an essential role in preserving continuity of government. Understanding how the vice presidency works—and how it has evolved—lets us see why this role matters more than it might seem.

Constitutional Foundations: What the Vice President Must Do

The U.S. Constitution (and amendments) assigns a few key, formal duties to the vice president. These duties remain central even as many additional roles have evolved over time.

1. President of the Senate & Tie-Breaker Vote

By Article I, Section 3, the vice president serves as President of the Senate. That means the vice president can preside over Senate sessions and, importantly, cast a tie-breaking vote when the Senate is evenly split.

In practice, though, vice presidents rarely sit in the Senate for daily business. Instead, their presence is most visible when they must break ties or during ceremonial occasions.

2. Overseeing the Electoral Count

During the joint session of Congress following a presidential election, the vice president presides over the counting of electoral votes. It’s the vice president’s job to open the certificates of electoral votes and announce which candidate has won the presidency.

3. Presidential Succession and Disability

Perhaps the most critical constitutional role is stepping in when the president cannot fulfill the office.

• Under the 25th Amendment, if the president dies, resigns, or is removed from office, the vice president becomes president.
• If the president is temporarily incapacitated (say, due to surgery or illness), the vice president can act as president until the chief executive is able to resume duties.
• The 25th Amendment also provides a method for filling a vacancy in the vice presidency—with a presidential nomination confirmed by both houses of Congress.

These provisions ensure continuity in leadership and clarity over when and how power is transferred.

Beyond the Constitution: Evolving Powers and Responsibilities

While the Constitution provides a baseline, the real influence of a vice president depends heavily on how presidents choose to use them, as well as the strengths and ambitions of the person holding the job.

1. Adviser and Policy Partner

In modern administrations, vice presidents often serve as close advisers to the president, engaging in policy development, strategic planning, and legislative negotiation.

They may lead special initiatives or task forces—on infrastructure, foreign policy, health care, or technology—if the president delegates such responsibilities.

2. Diplomatic and Ceremonial Roles

The vice president frequently represents the United States at home and abroad. This might include attending state funerals, meeting with foreign leaders, or carrying out public diplomacy missions.

They also often attend large public events, community outreach, and represent the administration’s presence in states and sectors where the president cannot be.

3. Influence Over Legislative Agenda

Although not a member of Congress, the vice president can help advance the president’s legislative priorities. They may lobby senators, coordinate between branches, or help manage political relationships with lawmakers.

How active the vice president is in this domain often depends on their relationship with the president and their own political skill.

4. National Security and Intelligence

In many administrations, the vice president holds a seat on the National Security Council and participates in high-level briefings. This role helps them stay informed about security decisions and contributes to foreign policy planning.

Because modern vice presidents are expected to be ready to assume full presidential duties at any time, it is critical they are deeply familiar with national security issues.

The Modern Vice Presidency: From Backseat to Active Role

Originally, the vice presidency was considered a somewhat marginal post. Over time, the office has transformed dramatically.

By the mid-20th century, vice presidents began shifting their offices to the White House, engaging more with executive functions, and becoming integral parts of the administration.

Today, the influence of the vice president varies considerably across administrations. Some vice presidents take a more ceremonial role; others become powerful policy partners and public figures. It often depends on the personalities and dynamics between president and vice president.

Why the Vice President’s Role Matters

• Continuity and stability: The vice president is the first in line to ensure the government keeps functioning if something happens to the president.
• Policy influence: By handling specific portfolios or initiatives, vice presidents help shape which issues receive attention and resources.
• Public voice: As a national figure, vice presidents can amplify the administration’s message, advocate for policies, and connect with communities.
• Representation: In foreign and domestic engagements, the vice president symbolizes the U.S. and can reinforce diplomacy, solidarity, or outreach.