S.Res.3 - To elect Charles E. Grassley, a Senator from the State of Iowa, to be President pro tempore of the Senate of the United States. (119th Congress)
Summary
Senate Resolution 3 (S.Res.3) pertains to the election of Senator Charles E. Grassley from Iowa as the President pro tempore of the Senate. The resolution was submitted by Mr. Thune, considered, and agreed to by the Senate on January 3, 2025. The role of President pro tempore is largely ceremonial but constitutionally significant.
The President pro tempore is the second-highest-ranking member of the Senate. They preside over the Senate in the absence of the Vice President.
This resolution is a routine procedural action within the Senate to organize its leadership.
Expected Effects
The immediate effect of this resolution is the formal designation of Senator Grassley as President pro tempore. This will change the leadership structure within the Senate.
Senator Grassley will assume the responsibilities associated with the position. This includes presiding over Senate sessions when the Vice President is absent.
Longer term, this action has little direct impact on the American people.
Potential Benefits
- Provides continuity and order in the Senate's proceedings.
- Ensures that there is a designated leader to preside over the Senate in the absence of the Vice President.
- Recognizes the seniority and experience of Senator Grassley.
- Facilitates the smooth functioning of the legislative branch.
- Upholds established traditions and protocols within the Senate.
Potential Disadvantages
- The resolution itself has no direct disadvantages for the American people.
- The selection of the President Pro Tempore is based on seniority, which may not always align with the most effective leadership.
- There are no significant drawbacks associated with this resolution.
Constitutional Alignment
The election of the President pro tempore is consistent with Article I, Section 3, Clause 5 of the US Constitution, which states: "The Senate shall choose their other Officers, and also a President pro tempore, in the Absence of the Vice President, or when he shall exercise the Office of President of the United States."
This resolution directly fulfills this constitutional provision by electing a Senator to fulfill that role. The process outlined in the resolution aligns with the Senate's constitutional authority to organize its leadership.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).