Garret Augustus Hobart was an American lawyer, businessman, and politician who served as the 24th Vice President of the United States from 1897 until his death in 1899. He was born on June 3, 1844, in Long Branch, New Jersey, and graduated from Rutgers College in 1863. Hobart became a successful corporate lawyer and prominent figure in New Jersey Republican politics, serving in the state legislature and rising to the position of Speaker of the General Assembly and President of the State Senate.

In 1896, he was chosen as William McKinley’s running mate, and they won the election. As vice president, Hobart was highly influential, often acting as a key advisor to McKinley and playing an active role in shaping administration policy. His leadership style and political skill earned him the nickname “Assistant President.” Hobart died in office on November 21, 1899, from heart disease, making him one of the few vice presidents to die while serving. His death left the vice presidency vacant until Theodore Roosevelt took office in 1901.