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What should be done when the President, through either injury or other incapacitation, is unable to carry out his constitutional mandate?

Just how should presidential disability be defined, and who should determine when the President is incapacitated?

The old adage that anyone can grow up to be President of the United States -- no matter what ethnic, religious or social background -- is actually true only to a limited extent. In fact, not everyone can be President; only those who meet the qualifications of the office are eligible to serve. What are those qualifications?

How the U.S. President Works

Decide on a name and identity as a letter writer. Decide where the letter writer lives and what problems worry this person. Write a letter to the President, dated 1800, telling him what your problems are and questioning him about how his programs will affect you, your family, and your region. Discuss the new government, focusing on how you think that process would affect you.

Edit and proofread your letter. Make corrections and finalize your letter.

Choose a friend to pose as the President and ask him or her to respond to your letter. Ask your friend to tell you how he or she feels about your problems. Have your friend explain what he or she plans to do as President. Make sure when, why, and how are included.

Copyright 2008