I was America's first instant Vice President, and now America's first instant President. The Marine Corps band is so confused, they don't know whether to play 'Hail to the Chief' or 'You've Come a Long Way, Baby'.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Ford humorously notes his unique status as the first vice president and president to assume office without election.
- In plain terms
- He jokes about being the first unelected president and VP.
- What can you take from it?
- Unusual transitions create unique historical markers.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How do leaders handle unique roles?
- What defines a normal transition?
Another view
The joke masks the serious constitutional instability of his succession.
More from Gerald Ford
He was one of the few political leaders I have ever met whose public speeches revealed more than his private conversations.
Permalink to quote #68 I watch a lot of baseball on the radio.
Permalink to quote #70 He didn't want to say anything bad about anyone. Ford had only one major fault - he was too nice a guy.
Permalink to quote #67
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