The Executive Branch Of Government: The President (Constraints On The President) Flashcards
What did the Founding Fathers design to prevent the president from becoming too powerful?
A system of limited government with a separation of powers and checks and balances.
How can Congress check or balance the power of the president?
By amending, delaying, or rejecting the president’s legislation, overriding a presidential veto, controlling the power of the purse, confirming presidential appointments, ratifying treaties, declaring war, conducting investigations, and through impeachment and trial.
What was an example of Congress rejecting the president’s legislation despite public support?
After the 2012 Sandy Hook elementary school shooting, Congress rejected Obama’s proposed stricter gun controls, including a ban on assault weapons.
How difficult is it for Congress to override a presidential veto?
Very difficult, requiring a two-thirds supermajority in both chambers.
What is the “power of the purse” and how does it check the president?
It requires Congress to pass the federal budget, giving them leverage in negotiations and the ability to force a government shutdown if the president does not agree to their demands.
What role does the Senate play in confirming presidential appointments?
The Senate must confirm more than 1,000 presidential appointments with a simple majority vote, encouraging careful appointments.
How can the Senate ratify treaties, and why do presidents sometimes avoid this process?
The Senate needs a two-thirds majority to ratify a treaty, which is difficult to achieve, so presidents often use executive agreements instead.
What theoretical power does Congress have regarding war, and how is it exercised?
Congress has the power to declare war, but has not done so since 1941, relying instead on the War Powers Act 1973 for military actions.
How do congressional investigations serve as a check on the president?
They provide oversight, generate media scrutiny, and can investigate the president’s administration and actions.
What is the process and significance of impeachment and trial of the president?
The House can impeach with a simple majority, and the Senate can convict with a two-thirds majority. Impeachment generates media attention and public scrutiny even if the president is acquitted.
How does judicial review by the judiciary check the president?
The Supreme Court can declare executive actions unconstitutional, limiting presidential power.
What was the outcome when federal courts halted Trump’s 2017 travel ban?
Trump was forced to amend his executive order, which the Supreme Court later ruled constitutional.
How does party support in Congress affect the president’s power?
Presidents with strong party support find it easier to pass legislation, while those without it face significant difficulties, especially during periods of divided government.
How does the prevailing judicial philosophy of the Supreme Court influence presidential actions?
Presidents are more likely to receive favorable rulings if the Supreme Court shares their ideology.
How do media and public opinion constrain the president?
Negative media coverage can shape public opinion against the president, affecting their ability to influence Congress and win re-election.
