Photo: © General Motors
While many Americans enjoy driving the open road with the windows down, or better yet in a convertible, it’s ironic that the top official of our country has to forgo many of the fun perks that cars offer when they take the office.
In honor of President’s Day, here are three reasons why a car geek should not consider taking on the role of U.S. Commander in Chief.
No Driving on Public Roads
Ever since 1963, when JFK was assassinated, no U.S. president is allowed to drive on public roads during their time in office. In fact, Lyndon Johnson is considered to be the last president who drove himself on public roads. Even former President Obama was denied the joys of driving a car for himself. As he commented on NBC’s “The Tonight Show,” he’d only done a few loops around the South Lawn in a Chevy Volt, referring to it as his “big joy ride.”
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Photo: Thomas Hawk
No Windows-Down Driving
You can’t drive with the windows down, because it would be a safety hazard. And, even more to the point, the windows on the presidential limo are unable to open. The windows and cabin are totally sealed to help protect POTUS from the possibility of a nuclear-biological-chemical (NBC) attack or radiation infiltration. (Bonus fact: The cabin is also equipped with its own independent air supply, to further assist in the likelihood of a nuclear incident.)
No Convertible Rides
Saying “yes” to the Oval Office means saying “no” to convertible rides. Once again, this security rule was implemented in the wake of JFK’s assassination.
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News Sources: CNBC, The Sydney Morning Herald, Ranker, The Drive
Whitney Russell resides in Dayton, though her spirit can be found beach-bumming in Puerto Rico (the land of her half-Puerto Rican heritage). When not crafting car-related content, she can be found chasing after the most amazing toddler in the world, watching her “beaver” of a husband build amazing woodworking projects, hanging out with two crazy dogs, and visiting family and friends. She also enjoys traveling, crafting, and binge-watching period dramas when time allows. See more articles by Whitney.