what is speaker pro tem

Speaker pro tempore is a Latin term meaning "for the time being". It refers to a temporary replacement for the Speaker of the House of Representatives or the President of the Senate, who presides over the House or Senate in the Speakers or Presidents absence. The Speaker pro tempore is elected by the House or Senate, respectively, and is responsible for performing the duties of the Speaker or President in their absence. The Speaker pro tempore can also be appointed by the Speaker to assist in their duties. The Speaker pro tempore has the power to exercise many functions that normally fall within the purview of the Speaker, such as calling the House to order, making various announcements, answering parliamentary inquiries, putting the question, counting for a quorum, ruling on points of order, and designating another Speaker pro tempore.