What does Hillary Clinton’s pneumonia diagnosis mean for the US presidential race and what happens if she drops out?
THERE are rumours that Hillary Clinton could be forced to pull out of the US presidential race after she was caught on camera appearing to faint at a 9/11 memorial event.
Clinton's pneumonia diagnosis followed months of speculation about her health - sparked by a coughing fit during a campaign speech, and a blood clot she suffered between her brain and skull a few years ago. But what does her health scare mean for the election?
Is Hillary going to drop out?
So far, the answer is no. Clinton's doctor, Lisa Bardack, confirmed that the presidential nominee is "recovering nicely". Clinton will be back on the campaign trail later this week, after cancelling a trip to California.
In fact, the ball is completely in Clinton's court - even if Democratic party operatives think she should go, or even make plans to select a new nominee, the final decision about staying in or dropping out is up to Clinton.
What happens if she drops out before the election?
If Hillary decides to drop out before the election on November 8, the Democratic National Committee would hold a meeting to vote for her successor, using a simple majority votes. It's not really clear how or when that would take place - sparking former DNC chairman Don Fowler to speak out demanding a clearer plan.
It's also worth noting that a new candidate would need to be named in time for states which offer early voting - which can occur as early as September 23 in some states.
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Who would replace her?
Whoever replaced Hillary would have to be picked by members of the Democratic Party. Hillary's running mate, Tim Kaine, could be a strong candidate to replace Hillary due to his large donor base - but he doesn't get any special considerate because of his current position.
Meanwhile, Bernie Sanders and Joe Biden, two well-known Democrats with considerable support could also be viable replacements - although Biden has said he didn't want to run for office.
It's not unheard of for spouses to replace their husband and wife in office - but Bill Clinton wouldn't be able to, due to the 22nd Amendment which prevents a President serving more than two terms.
Some have said that the couple's daughter, Chelsea, could replace her mother instead - even though she has no experience and hasn't actually expressed an interest in following in her parents' footsteps.
What happens if something occurs after the election?
If Hillary withdraws after the election, but before the electoral college meets to cast the final vote which decides the President, federal law states electors can vote for whoever they want.
If she wins the election, but then falls ill, according to the 20th Amendment her Vice President would become Acting President until she recovers.
Meanwhile Donald Trump has vowed to release his own medical records to prove that he is in superior condition to his rival.