Congress
President Pro Tempore
Definition
The senator who presides over the Senate in the absence of the Vice President. Traditionally the longest-serving member of the majority party.
Related Terms
Senate
The upper chamber of Congress with 100 members—two from each state. Senators serve six-year terms, with one-third up for election every two years.
Speaker of the HouseThe presiding officer of the House of Representatives and second in the presidential line of succession. Elected by the full House.
More Congress Terms
Common Questions
- What is a president pro tempore?
- The senator who presides over the Senate in the absence of the Vice President. Traditionally the longest-serving member of the majority party.
- What terms are related to president pro tempore?
- Related terms include: Senate, Speaker of the House. Understanding these related concepts helps provide context for president pro tempore.