Succession in a time of terrorism
Since the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, observers have expressed concern that an attack during the presidential inauguration ceremony might lead to the death or disability of most or all officials in the line of presidential succession. This concern takes particular note of the fact that there are generally few, if any, duly confirmed cabinet members at that time. One potential remedy for this situation would be for an official in the line of succession to be absent from the ceremony. Another might be for a cabinet secretary from the outgoing Administration to remain in office until after the inauguration; alternatively, a cabinet secretary-designate of the new administration might be nominated by the incumbent President, confirmed by the Senate, and installed prior to the inauguration. Either action would avoid a gap in the line of presidential succession under these circumstances.