The protocol for succession in the U.S. presidency is defined by the Presidential Succession Act. If a president dies, resigns, or is removed from office, the line of succession is established, beginning with the Vice President, followed by the Speaker of the House, the President pro tempore of the Senate, and then the Cabinet members in the order their departments were created. This structured approach ensures continuity of governance and stability during unforeseen events. Additionally, the 25th Amendment outlines procedures for dealing with presidential incapacitation, further clarifying succession and transition processes.