Nelson Rockefeller was sworn in fifty years ago as Vice President of the United States on December 19, 1974, after a long confirmation process. 

President Gerald Ford nominated Rockefeller for Vice President on August 20, 1974, shortly after his own swearing-in as President. Rockefeller had been the longest-serving Governor of New York (1959 – 1973) and previously held positions under Presidents Roosevelt, Truman, and Eisenhower. In announcing his nomination of Rockefeller, Ford cited Rockefeller’s long career of service, saying, “He is a person whose long record of accomplishment in the Government and outside is well-known. He comes from a family that has long been associated with the building of a better America.”

Despite Ford’s praise, Rockefeller was not the most popular choice. Some believed him not conservative enough while some liberals worried about potential conflicts of interest from his own personal fortune. His confirmation process took four months and involved an extensive background investigation but Rockefeller was finally confirmed by the Senate on December 6 and by the House of Representatives on December 19. 

Of Rockefeller’s confirmation, Ford said, “I am delighted that Nelson Rockefeller has been duly confirmed today to be the 41st Vice President of the United States. I congratulate him and look forward to his participation and assistance in the Administration.”

Rockefeller took the oath of office, administered by Chief Justice Warren Burger, in the Senate Chamber of the US Capitol Building. The President and First Lady were in attendance, as well as Rockefeller’s wife, Happy. 

You can watch Rockefeller’s swearing-in on the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum’s YouTube account:

Author: Lauren White