May 1st

Word arrives at the emergency Cabinet meeting of Thomas Marshall’s death on the scene of his assassination. They are also informed of Wilson’s dire straits by Presidential Assistant Joseph Tumulty, and of Edith Wilson’s assumption of secretarial duties over the President. Treasury Secretary Carter Glass is first in string of Cabinet officials to recommend Secretary of State Robert Lansing assume the duties of presidency as third in line of succession, on account of the massive crisis that has paralyzed both the Union and the President.

Later on May 1st

Senate President pro tempore Albert B. Cummins, Senate Majority Leader Henry Cabot Lodge, House Speaker Frederick H. Gillette, and House Majority Leader Franklin Mondell meet with the Cabinet. GOP leadership agrees that a transfer of presidential duties seems to be absolutely necessary in light of Wilson’s apparent incapacity. Given the information received from Wilson’s inner circle, the Republican leadership insists Lansing accede to the Presidency, should the Democratic leadership in Congress agree and the Attorney General’s office clear the way.

Night against May 2nd

The thinned out Senate Democratic leadership, Senate Minority Leader Oscar Underwood and House Democratic Caucus Chairman Arthur Granville Dewalt meet with Cabot Lodge and Speaker Gillette, followed by a common meeting with Lansing, Glass, Attorney-General Thomas Watt Gregory and Secretary of War Newton Baker. Democrats bring no surprises - Lansing’s succession is agreed to.

Morning of May 3rd

Robert Lansing is sworn in as President of the United States.

John W. Davis, Solicitor General of the United States, is appointed acting Secretary of State.