Audio Recordings

Interview 1 focuses heavily on the creation and implementation of the 25th amendment, which outlines the specifics of presidential succession. The Nixon Administration was the first presidential cabinet that required implementation of the 25th amendment. The 25th amendment established the line of succession in circumstances of a presidential or vice president vacancy. In September 1973, the Vice President of the United States Spiro T. Agnew, was investigated by the District Attorney of Maryland for crimes and misdemeanors that surfaced during his time as Governor. Out of fear of possible impeachment and concerns about the impartiality of the investigation processes, Vice President Agnew reached out to Carl Albert. As the Speaker of the House, Carl Albert held considerable power to assemble a new committee to investigate the charges against Agnew.

Interview 3 describes the political  tension after the vice presidency was vacant and the selection process to fill the void. After Vice President Agnew's resignation and the the possible impeachment of President Richard Nixon, Speaker Carl Albert became next in line for the presidency. In the midst of the executive vacancy, Albert received twenty-four hour protection from the secret service. The process to nominate a new vice president was expedited by the political circumstances and public pressure. After consulting the republican and democratic leadership, President Nixon nominated Gerald Ford to fill the office of vice president.

Audio transcription of events from January 1- January 16, 1974 depicting details about Joe Foote's experience with first meeting Speaker Carl Albert and subsequent interactions, character of Carl Albert, and other details.