Presidential Power

Question 1

Commander in Chief

Answer 1

Although the President has no power to declare war, Article II, Section 2 makes the President commander in chief of the military, which affords the President extensive power to deploy military forces against any enemy, foreign or domestic. Congress lacks such power.

Question 2

Pardon power

Answer 2

The President is empowered by the Constitution to grant reprieves and pardons for offenses against the United States (aka federal offenses), except in cases of impeachment. The President cannot pardon state offenders. A federal official who has been impeached (accused by the House and convicted by the Senate) may not receive a pardon.