Checks by the President on congress Flashcards
what is Madisons view on checks?
‘Ambition must be made to counteract ambition’
How does the presidents power to prevent the actions of congress guard against popular democracy?
prevents the people electing representatives who act in self interest rather than interests of the whole nation
suggest legislation
the president is directly elected and they campaign using their policies .
however the president has no legislative power but the constitution allows them to suggest legislation at their annual state of union address
sign or veto legislation
sign - becomes law
veto - sent back to congress to be amended and voted for again
how is the power to veto threatening to congress
the threat alone can be enough to prevent congress passing a bill
how many times did Bush and Obama use their veto?
12 times
commander in chief of the armed forces
president decides on the stationing and movement of troops and the use of military weapons.
example of Obama using the power of being Commander in Chief of the Armed forces
when Obama sought approval from congress for action in Syria , he stated “I believe I have the authority to carry out this military action without specific congressional authorisation”.