Chuck Grassley, the senior senator from Iowa, has once again taken up the role of President pro tempore of the U.S. Senate. Sworn in on January 3, 2025, this is the second time Grassley has held the position. His first tenure was from 2019 to 2021. With a Senate career that began in 1981, Grassley is now one of the most powerful and longest-serving lawmakers in U.S. history.

What is the President Pro Tempore?

The President pro tempore is an important leadership role in the Senate. The position is more than ceremonial and comes with key responsibilities:

• Presiding over the Senate when the Vice President is absent.
• Convening Senate sessions and recognizing senators to speak.
• Ruling on points of order and ensuring Senate rules are followed.
• Administering oaths of office to new members.
• Signing enrolled bills before they go to the President.
• Overseeing Senate officers, including the Secretary and Sergeant at Arms.
• Recommending nominees for important positions such as the U.S. Comptroller General.

The President pro tempore is also third in line for the presidency, following the Vice President and the Speaker of the House. This makes Grassley’s position constitutionally significant.

A Historic Legacy for Iowa

Grassley is the 91st senator to serve as President pro tempore and only the second Iowan in U.S. history to hold this office. The first was Senator Albert B. Cummins in the early 1900s. Grassley also became Dean of the Senate in 2023, a title given to the longest continuously serving senator.

Grassley’s Senate Career

Grassley has represented Iowa in the U.S. Senate since 1981. During his career, he has chaired some of the most influential committees:

• Judiciary Committee – currently serving as Chair.
• Finance Committee – influencing tax and budget legislation.
• Special Committee on Aging – focusing on senior citizens’ issues.
• International Narcotics Control Caucus – tackling drug policy and enforcement.

Known for his Iowa-style straightforwardness, Grassley has prioritized government transparency, accountability, and regular communication with his constituents.

Recent Headlines and Political Stances

Grassley continues to play an active role in national debates:

Allegations of Government Cover-ups

In a recent interview, Grassley said that scandals tied to the Obama and Biden administrations—including Russiagate—were a “cover-up worse than Watergate,” citing leaked documents and whistleblower evidence.

Judicial Appointment Debate

Former President Trump has urged Grassley to change or eliminate the Senate’s blue slip tradition, a practice that allows senators to block judicial nominees from their states. Grassley defended the tradition as an important check on executive power.

Criticism of FBI Leadership

Grassley has openly criticized FBI Director Christopher Wray, saying he has “no confidence” in his leadership, particularly in relation to the Russia investigation and the Mar-a-Lago raid.

Looking to the Future

At 91 years old, Grassley continues to be a strong voice in the Senate. He has not ruled out the possibility of running for re-election in 2028. His leadership on judicial reform, government oversight, and national security will remain central to debates in Washington.

Conclusion

Chuck Grassley’s return as President pro tempore highlights both his long service and his continuing influence in American politics. From oversight of federal agencies to shaping the judiciary, Grassley’s decisions have far-reaching consequences. His unique position at the intersection of tradition and modern political battles makes him one of the most significant senators in U.S. history.