Again, only a partial picture here for the long amendment. This amendment is important though, because it defines clearly the chain of the presidency when the president cannot fulfill his duties due to disability or death. It also defines filling the vice president's vacancy if this happens.
Video:
Had to go with a little humor here. Simple, yet effectively explains how the president gets replaced in the case of a zombie apocalypse, among other things. And I laughed some, which is always nice.
Article:
'Expert' Claims: 25th Amendment to be Used to Remove Obama
The Cauldron Contributing Writer
Published: Monday, November 1, 2010
Updated: Monday, November 1, 2010 20:11
In election years, it seems as if the collective conscious of America is increasingly cluttered with the detritus of political campaigning. Now more than ever, technology has given the average voter not only a wealth of information, but also the ability to research candidates and issues independently of the media.
Problems arise however, and since everyone can research, everyone can become an "expert". One such case has recently come to worldwide attention; another attempt to unseat President Barack Obama, this time using the 25th Amendment.
A five minute broadcast aired on a network called Press TV, featuring an interview with a staff member of the "Executive Intelligence Review." Taking the interview at face value, it seems as if there is a conspiracy afoot, to replace President Barack Obama, as he is "mentally incapable of holding office".
I feel that this must be prefaced with a few provisos. I have complex political opinions, and suffice it to say that I am largely opposed to the policies of President Obama.For the sake of brevity however, the "Executive Intelligence Review's" record is dubious at best, especially since its owners political amibitions once included a run for the Democratic Nominee for President, now it consists of calling Obama a NAZI. Combine this less-than-legitimate source for news with the fact that Press TV (the network) is an English-language news agency funded by: The Islamic Republic of Iran.
So, just to recap: Edward Spannaus, a representative for a Left-leaning weekly newsmagazine that compares the healthcare insurance overhaul to Nazi euthanasia is calling for Obama's removal under the 25th Amendment, on a news network run by Iran? Does it seem crazy to you? It did to me.
Aside from the obvious problems, I think this example underscores a frightening trend in American politics. It seems to be that the public discourse is consumed by irrational fears of Socialists, Muslims, Jews, Gays, Hillbillies, or Neo-Nazis, all of them secretly plotting to take over America.
Instead of reporting on issues, our national news media is fascinated by whatever crackpot decides to hold a protest or run for office. Instead of being logical and rational, our democratic process is being undermined by vast right or left wing conspiracies. Edward Spannaus, who spouted this idea of a mentally incapable President on Press TV, did not make a whole lot of sense. Watching the interview, it is clear the Iranian anchor had no idea what he was talking about.
The news story was about Obama's poll numbers, and the news anchor had to contend with a man talking about the 25th Amendment. At any rate, further investigation reveals the "Executive Intelligence Review" to be like the "Weekly World News" of political publications.
There is a sharp line being drawn in the American discourse, on one side we have logical and reasoned debate. On the other side, there is an incessant flirtation with conspiracies and anti-intellectualism.
While mudslinging and dirty campaigning are a perennial part of the democratic system, it seems that the recent political climate indicates a dramatic shift in how America elects its leaders. One could ignore it as a side-effect of the midterm elections, but something tells me that there is more craziness to come.
Reaction:
I think this one also falls into the category of "wow." A conspiracy to remove president Obama aired on an Iranian network? That screams reliable to me.
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