This Is What Happens When US Presidential Candidate Dies Before Elections | Explained

The recent incident involving former President Donald Trump being hurried off stage during a campaign rally due to apparent gunshots and subsequent injury is not the first instance of violence against a presidential candidate.

Historically, such incidents have occurred multiple times, reported ET.

For instance, in 1912, Theodore Roosevelt was shot while delivering a speech but managed to survive.

Similarly, in 1968, Robert F. Kennedy was shot dead during his presidential campaign.

Even in modern times, presidential candidates, including Trump, have faced assassination attempts. Notably, in 2017, the Secret Service thwarted an ISIL plot against Trump during the ASEAN Summits.

When a presidential runner dies, the method for selecting a replacement depends on various factors.

If a candidate dies or is incapacitated before the general election, the political party involved will select a replacement.

This typically involves the party's national committee members coming together to choose a new nominee, following the party's specific rules and methods for such a selection process.

If the candidate's death or incapacitation occurs after the general election but before the Electoral College votes, the electors may have the discretion to vote for a replacement chosen by their party.

Should the president-elect die or become incapacitated after the Electoral College vote but before the inauguration, the vice president-elect would assume the presidency.

These procedures are in place to ensure continuity and address potential leadership gaps during critical times.