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First Formal Use Of Disability Clause

2002

When President George W. Bush undergoes his third colonoscopy, he transfers power to Vice President Dick Cheney for an hour while he is sedated. This is the first formal use of the disability clause in the 25th Amendment, which was passed to clarify what happens upon the death, removal, or resignation of the president or vice president as well as how the presidency is temporarily filled if the president becomes disabled and cannot fulfill his responsibilities.