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2mo ago

Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins Named Designated Survivor for Trump’s Congressional Address

The tradition ensures continuity of government in case of a catastrophic event during major federal gatherings.

Doug Collins testifies during his Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee confirmation hearing in the Dirksen Senate Office Building in Washington, DC, on January 21, 2025.
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Doug Collins has been named the designated survivor for Trump's speech.
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Overview

  • Doug Collins, Secretary of Veterans Affairs, was selected as the designated survivor for President Trump's joint session of Congress on Tuesday night.
  • The designated survivor is a cabinet member in the presidential line of succession who stays at a secure, undisclosed location during key government events.
  • This practice, dating back to the Cold War, was established to ensure a smooth transfer of power in the event of a disaster affecting government leadership.
  • Collins, confirmed as Veterans Affairs Secretary on February 5, 2025, is 17th in the presidential line of succession.
  • The designated survivor tradition has been observed during State of the Union addresses, inaugurations, and other major federal events to safeguard continuity of governance.