Presidential Qualifications, Terms and Succession

According to the U.S. Constitution, what is the minimum age requirement to become President?

• 30 years old

• 35 years old

• 40 years old

• 45 years old

Answer explanation

According to the U.S. Constitution, a candidate must be at least 35 years old to be eligible for the presidency. This requirement ensures that the President has sufficient maturity and experience.

Which amendment addresses the procedures for presidential succession and handling presidential disabilities?

• 20th Amendment

• 22nd Amendment

• 25th Amendment

• 27th Amendment

Answer explanation

The 25th Amendment addresses presidential succession and the procedures for handling presidential disabilities, ensuring continuity of government in case the president is unable to perform their duties.

What is the maximum number of full terms a president can serve according to the 22nd Amendment?

• One term

• Two terms

• Three terms

• No limit

Answer explanation

According to the 22nd Amendment, a president can serve a maximum of two full terms. This was established to limit the time one individual can hold the office, ensuring a rotation of leadership.

Which of these is NOT a formal constitutional qualification for becoming President?

• Natural-born citizen

• College degree

• 14-year U.S. resident

• At least 35 years old

Answer explanation

A college degree is not a formal constitutional requirement to become President. The Constitution only mandates being a natural-born citizen, a 14-year U.S. resident, and at least 35 years old.

According to the presidential line of succession, who follows the Vice President?

• Secretary of State

• Speaker of the House

• Senate President Pro Tempore

• Secretary of Defense

Answer explanation

According to the presidential line of succession, the Speaker of the House follows the Vice President. This order is established by the Presidential Succession Act.

The 20th Amendment primarily addresses:

• The terms of the President and Vice President.

• The length of Senate terms.

• The election process for Congress.

• The powers of the Supreme Court.

Answer explanation

The 20th Amendment primarily addresses the terms of the President and Vice President, establishing the start and end dates for their terms in office, thus clarifying the transition of power.

Who decides if the President is unable to discharge the powers and duties of the office?

• The Supreme Court

• Congress

• The Cabinet

• The Vice President and majority of Cabinet

Answer explanation

The 25th Amendment states that the Vice President and a majority of the Cabinet can determine if the President is unable to perform their duties, making this the correct choice.

How long must a presidential candidate have been a resident of the United States?

• 10 years

• 14 years

• 20 years

• 25 years

Answer explanation

A presidential candidate must have been a resident of the United States for at least 14 years, as stated in the U.S. Constitution. This requirement ensures candidates have a strong connection to the country.

The 20th Amendment established what date for the beginning of presidential terms?

• February 1

• January 20

• December 31

• March 15

Answer explanation

The 20th Amendment established January 20 as the date for the beginning of presidential terms, moving it from March 4 to reduce the time between election and inauguration.

What is the maximum number of years someone can serve as President if they initially assumed office through succession?

• 8 years

• 12 years

• 4 years

• 10 years

Answer explanation

If a President assumes office through succession, they can serve the remainder of the current term plus two full terms, totaling a maximum of 10 years.