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Interior Secretary David Bernhardt is designated survivor

During President Trump's State of the Union, Bernhardt's was designated for the practice ensuring a Cabinet member's not attending in case of an emergency.

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WASHINGTON — The White House says Interior Secretary David Bernhardt is the designated survivor for President Donald Trump's State of the Union.

The designation refers to the practice of ensuring that one Cabinet secretary does not attend the annual speech in case of a national emergency or devastating tragedy.

The designated survivor would lead the government if other officials are killed or incapacitated.

Bernhardt was named interior secretary last year, replacing Ryan Zinke, who resigned.

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Credit: AP

In this March 28, 2019 file photo, David Bernhardt, a former oil and gas lobbyist, speaks before the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee at his confirmation hearing to head the Interior Department.