President Pro Tempore

The President Pro Tempore is a senior member of the U.S. Senate who presides over the Senate in the absence of the Vice President. This position is primarily ceremonial, as the President Pro Tempore doesn't make policy decisions but ensures smooth proceedings during sessions. Typically, the role is filled by the longest-serving Senator from the majority party. The President Pro Tempore also has the authority to appoint other Senate officials and is third in the presidential line of succession, following the Vice President and the Speaker of the House.