Is It Possible to Elect a New President Before Joe Biden’s Term Ends?

The U.S. presidential system is designed to ensure a smooth transfer of power through a well-defined succession process. This process ensures that the nation continues to function effectively even if the current president is unable to serve out their full term. However, the question often arises: is it possible for the U.S. to elect a new president before Joe Biden's term ends?

Current Succession Protocols

According to the U.S. Constitution and the Presidential Succession Act of 1947, the order of succession to the presidency is:

Vice President Speaker of the House President pro tempore of the Senate Secretary of State, followed by other cabinet members in order of department establishment

For example, if Joe Biden were to die, resign, or be removed from office, Vice President Kamala Harris would become the new president. This transition would happen regardless of how long Kamala Harris had been in her position as Vice President.

Electoral Process and Timing

The upcoming election cycle, particularly the 2024 presidential election, will determine the next president of the United States. The election is scheduled for the first Tuesday following the first Monday in November, and it is a biennial event as mandated by the U.S. Constitution.

Biden's term ends on January 20, 2025, at the swearing-in ceremony for the new president. This timing is crucial for several reasons, including the need for proper transition preparations and the logistical complexities of organizing a new presidential inauguration.

Impeachment and Removal

Impeachment or removal via the 25th Amendment is also a path that can lead to a new president. If Joe Biden were impeached and removed from office, the Vice President would immediately become the new president, assuming the impeachment process is finalized and the Senate confirms the removal.

Historical examples like the case of John Tyler illustrate this point. Tyler became president after William Henry Harrison's death, despite serving only 30 days as Vice President. This precedent underscores the constitutional framework that allows for such transitions without needing an early election.

Potential for Early Presidential Election

While the traditional path involves a scheduled election in November, early elections can occur under extraordinary circumstances. However, these scenarios are rare and would require significant political, legal, and logistical coordination.

For instance, if a major crisis were to occur, such as a catastrophic event leading to the resignation of the current president, the transition process could potentially be expedited. Nevertheless, any such moves would need to adhere to the Constitution and Congressional approval.

Modern Context and Term Limits

Currently, Joe Biden is serving his second term and is subject to the Constitutional term limit of two terms. This means that no matter the circumstances, a new president will be elected in 2024. If Joe Biden does not seek re-election, the election will proceed as scheduled, even in the absence of his candidacy.

Furthermore, the likelihood of a new president before Biden's term is extremely low unless unprecedented circumstances arise that lead to his removal from office or death. Even then, the transition process would be orderly and guided by constitutional procedures.

In conclusion, while the U.S. has protocols to ensure smooth transitions, the traditional and most likely scenario is that Joe Biden will complete his term and a new president will be elected in the 2024 presidential election.