what does the president pro tempore do

The president pro tempore of the U.S. Senate mainly presides over the Senate when the vice president is absent, and can also perform certain formal duties like signing legislation and administering oaths in that situation.

Quick Scoop

Beyond presiding, the office can help with Senate administration, including appointing certain officers and making some commission or advisory-board appointments. It is also the third position in the presidential line of succession, after the vice president and the Speaker of the House.

What it actually means

“Pro tempore” means “for the time being,” so the role is basically a stand-in presiding officer for the Senate. In practice, the day-to-day chairing of the Senate is often rotated among senators rather than handled constantly by the president pro tempore.

Key duties

• Preside over the Senate when the vice president is away.

• Administer oaths and sign legislation when needed.

• Help with certain Senate appointments and receive official reports.

• Serve as third in the presidential succession line.

Short version

If you want the simplest answer: the president pro tempore is the Senate’s official backup presiding officer, with some extra ceremonial and administrative responsibilities.