chapter 12

Question 1

formal powers

Answer 1

powers of the president outlined in Article 2 of the constitution

Question 2

informal powers

Answer 2

powers claimed by the president overtime that are not explicitly state in the constitution

Question 3

electoral college

Answer 3

a body of people representing the states of the US, who formally cast votes for the election of the president and vice president.

Question 4

policy agenda

Answer 4

things the president aims to get done during his presidency

Question 5

executive agreement

Answer 5

an international agreement, usually regarding routine administrative matters not warranting a formal treaty, made by the executive branch of the US government without ratification by the Senate.

Question 6

executive order

Answer 6

regulations origination with the executive branch. executive orders are one method presidents can use to control the bureaucracy

Question 7

cabinet

Answer 7

a group of presidential advisers not mentioned in the constitution although every president has had one. today the cabinet is composed of 14 secretaries, the attorney, general, and others designated by the president

Question 8

state of the union address

Answer 8

an annual address delivered by the president of the US to Congress, typically at the beginning of the year, giving the administration’s view of the state of the nation and plans for legislation.

Question 9

bargaining and persuasion

Answer 9

Setting priorities for Congress and attempting to get majorities to put through the president’s legislative agenda

Question 10

signing statements

Answer 10

Giving the president’s intended interpretation of bills passed by Congress

Question 11

federalist no. 70

Answer 11

an essay written by Alexander Hamilton arguing for a single, energetic executive provided for in the United States Constitution.

Question 12

impeachment

Answer 12

the political equivalent of an indictment in criminal law, prescribed by the Constitution. The House of reps may impeach the president by a majority vote for “treason, bribery, or other high crimes and misdemeanors.” The Senate can take the president on trial after the House of reps votes

Question 13

22nd amendment

Answer 13

this amendment limits presidents to two terms of office

Question 14

pardon

Answer 14

government decision to allow a person to be relieved of some or all of the legal consequences resulting from a criminal conviction