Secret plans for maintaining government control during a catastrophic emergency
Continuity of Government (COG) refers to classified plans and infrastructure designed to ensure the survival of the federal government during a catastrophic event such as nuclear war, a major terrorist attack, or a natural disaster. These programs include secret bunkers, alternative command centers, pre-designated succession lists, and emergency communication networks.
During the Cold War, COG planning centered on nuclear attack scenarios. The program built underground facilities at Mount Weather in Virginia, Raven Rock in Pennsylvania, and other locations. These sites were designed to house senior government officials and maintain essential government functions during and after a nuclear exchange. The full scope of COG infrastructure remains classified.
After 9/11, the Bush administration activated COG protocols for the first time. Vice President Cheney was moved to an "undisclosed location," and approximately 100 senior officials were rotated through bunker assignments. Investigative journalist James Bamford and others reported that COG plans developed under the Reagan administration by Oliver North included provisions for suspending the Constitution, detaining large numbers of citizens, and imposing martial law — provisions that Congress was never briefed on.
