The Presidency Flashcards
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What does federal bureaucracy mean?
the network of government agencies and departments that help carry out the laws and policies set by the president and congress. they manage everything from national defense to healthcare and education.
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What does presidency/executive branch mean?
the branch of the u.s. government headed by the president. it includes the president, vice president, and the various departments and agencies that enforce and administer laws.
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What does expressed powers mean?
powers explicitly granted to the president by the constitution, such as the power to veto laws, command the military, and make treaties.
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What does domestic policy mean?
the decisions, laws, and actions a government takes to deal with issues within its own country. This can include things like education, healthcare, taxes, and social welfare programs. It’s how a government manages and addresses problems and needs that affect its citizens directly.
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What does foreign policy mean?
the strategies and actions a country uses to interact with other nations. the president plays a major role in shaping u.s. foreign policy, including negotiating treaties and handling diplomacy.
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What does state of the union mean?
an annual speech given by the president to congress, where the president discusses the country’s status and outlines legislative priorities for the year.
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What does recess appointments mean?
when the president appoints individuals to government positions while congress is not in session. these appointments are temporary until congress returns.
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What does executive order mean?
A rule or directive issued by the president that has the force of law. it is used to manage the operations of the federal government or address specific issues.
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What does signing statement mean?
a written declaration issued by the president when signing a bill into law. it may explain how the president interprets the law or how they plan to enforce it.
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What does pardon mean?
the president’s power to forgive someone for a federal crime, removing penalties or consequences associated with that crime.
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What does commutation mean?
the president’s power to reduce a person’s sentence without changing the conviction, making the punishment less severe.
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What does powers of persuasion mean?
the president’s ability to influence public opinion, lawmakers, and other political figures to support their policies.
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What does bully pulpit mean?
the president’s use of their position to speak out and promote their ideas, policies, and agenda, often influencing public opinion and rallying support.
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What does electoral mandate mean?
the authority a president is believed to have after winning an election, which they use to justify their policy agenda as a reflection of the people’s will.
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What does coattails effect mean?
the tendency for candidates from the same political party as the president to win elections because the president is popular and their party is strong.
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What does informal powers mean?
powers not directly granted by the constitution but come from the president’s ability to influence public opinion, lead their party, and use media to promote their agenda.
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What does enumerated powers mean?
specific powers that are listed or clearly written in the Constitution for Congress. These powers are directly stated in the document.
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What does implied powers mean?
Powers not specifically mentioned in the Constitution but are suggested or implied. This allows Congress to take actions that are needed to carry out its enumerated powers, even if those actions aren’t directly stated in the Constitution.
The presidency and the constitution:
How does the presidency and the constitution link? (There are 2 ways)
Article II of the Constitution:
This article outlines the specific powers and responsibilities of the President. It establishes the President as the Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces, grants the power to make treaties (with Senate approval), appoint judges and other officials, and execute laws passed by Congress. This article is foundational because it directly defines the role of the President in the government.
Checks and Balances:
The Constitution creates a system of checks and balances to limit the power of the President. For example, Congress can override a presidential veto, and the Supreme Court can declare presidential actions unconstitutional. This ensures that the President’s powers are not unchecked and helps maintain a balance between the branches of government.
Comparing enumerated and implied powers:
Comparing enumerated and implied powers?
Enumerated powers are specific powers clearly listed in the Constitution. These powers, like taxing and declaring war, are straightforward and easy to understand. However, they are limited in scope and don’t cover every situation Congress might face today. While they are important for basic government functions, they don’t allow for much flexibility in dealing with new problems. Because of this, enumerated powers can be less powerful and useful in addressing modern issues.
Implied powers are powers that aren’t directly written in the Constitution but are allowed by the Necessary and Proper Clause. These powers give Congress the flexibility to do what’s needed to carry out its listed powers, even if it’s not explicitly stated. This makes implied powers more powerful because they allow Congress to adapt to new challenges, like creating a national bank. Implied powers are more useful today because they help Congress respond to problems that the framers of the Constitution couldn’t have predicted.
Formal sources of the presidential powers:
What are the formal sources of presidential powers and where can they be seen? e.g. constitutional powers (use two examples)
Approving Legislation:
The president has the power to sign bills into law or veto them. For example, in March 2021, President Joe Biden signed the American Rescue Plan Act into law, a $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief package aimed at providing direct financial aid to individuals, extending unemployment benefits, delivering stimulus checks, and distributing vaccines. The law was a significant part of his administration’s efforts to combat the economic impacts of the pandemic. Biden’s signing of this bill into law demonstrates the president’s role in approving major legislative actions passed by Congress, showcasing how the executive can influence economic policy directly through the power of the pen.
Veto Power:
The president can also veto bills passed by Congress. For example, in 2020, President Donald Trump vetoed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which included provisions that would have required the renaming of military bases named after Confederate leaders. Trump disagreed with this particular provision and other parts of the bill, using his veto power to block the legislation. However, Congress overrode the veto in December 2020, illustrating how the president’s veto power allows them to reject legislation that they do not agree with, although it can be overridden by Congress if it has sufficient support.
Formal sources of the presidential powers:
What are the formal sources of presidential powers and where can they be seen? e.g. Executive orders (use two examples)
Executive Order on Climate Change (2021):
In January 2021, President Joe Biden signed an executive order to re-enter the Paris Agreement, a global accord on climate change. This executive order reversed President Trump’s 2017 decision to withdraw the U.S. from the agreement. By doing so, Biden used the executive order to align U.S. foreign policy with global climate goals without needing Congress to pass a law. This order is a powerful example of the president’s ability to implement major policy changes through executive action, especially in foreign affairs, without the need for Congressional approval or legislation.
Executive Order on COVID-19 (2021):
In January 2021, Biden also signed an executive order that mandated the wearing of masks on federal property and during interstate travel, including in airplanes and buses. This executive order was part of his broader strategy to combat the COVID-19 pandemic, aiming to reduce the spread of the virus through federal regulation. While Congress had not yet passed new comprehensive COVID-19 legislation, Biden’s executive order allowed him to take immediate action to address the public health crisis. It illustrates how executive orders can be used for swift, presidential action on pressing issues without waiting for legislative solutions.
Formal sources of the presidential powers:
What are the formal sources of presidential powers and where can they be seen? e.g. appointment powers (use two examples)
Judicial Appointments:
The president nominates judges for vacancies on the U.S. Supreme Court and lower federal courts. In 2020, President Donald Trump nominated Amy Coney Barrett to the U.S. Supreme Court after the death of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Barrett’s confirmation by the Senate solidified a more conservative majority on the Court, which will have long-term implications on rulings regarding issues such as abortion rights, gun control, and healthcare. This illustrates the president’s ability to influence the judicial branch, especially through Supreme Court nominations, which can reshape U.S. law for generations.
Cabinet Appointments :
The president also nominates individuals to serve in key roles within the Executive Branch. For instance, in 2021, President Joe Biden appointed Lloyd Austin as Secretary of Defense, making him the first African American to hold this position. Austin’s nomination was significant, as it not only had the potential to influence military policy but also represented a historic moment in terms of diversity in government leadership. This highlights the president’s power to shape the executive branch’s makeup, which impacts the direction of U.S. domestic and foreign policy.
President is the head of state:
How can the president be seen as the head of state? e.g. symbolic role in national unity (use two examples)
President George W. Bush’s Response to the September 11 Attacks (2001):
After the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, President George W. Bush quickly became a symbol of national resilience and strength. He delivered a speech in which he promised justice for the attacks and rallied the nation to unite. His visit to Ground Zero in New York City, where he stood alongside first responders, was a pivotal moment, solidifying his role as the head of state and offering emotional support to the nation during a time of fear and tragedy.
President Barack Obama’s Address after the Sandy Hook Shooting (2012):
After the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting in 2012, President Barack Obama gave an emotional speech where he comforted the families affected by the tragedy and the nation as a whole. His promise to take action on gun violence reform and his call for unity and support for the victims’ families helped symbolize national healing and unity. As head of state, Obama was expected to bring the country together and lead in addressing the broader issue of gun control, exemplifying the president’s role as a symbol of strength and compassion.
President is the head of state:
How can the president be seen as the head of state? e.g. Foreign policy (use two examples)
President George W. Bush’s Visit to the Middle East (2008):
In 2008, President George W. Bush visited several key Middle Eastern countries, including Iraq, Saudi Arabia, and Israel, to show support for U.S. troops and strengthen diplomatic ties. His visit was a symbol of U.S. commitment to the stability and security of the region during the ongoing Iraq War. In Iraq, Bush met with Iraqi leaders to encourage them to take greater responsibility for their own security and governance. The trip also aimed to reassure U.S. allies that the U.S. was dedicated to peace efforts and regional stability. As head of state, Bush represented American interests abroad, especially in a region critical to U.S. foreign policy.
President Barack Obama’s Speech in Cairo (2009):
In 2009, President Barack Obama delivered a landmark speech at Cairo University in Egypt, aimed at improving relations between the United States and the Muslim world. Obama emphasized the need for mutual respect, cooperation on global challenges like terrorism, and a fair resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. His speech was a significant shift from previous U.S. policies, signaling a new direction in foreign diplomacy. By acknowledging the cultural and historical contributions of Islam, Obama sought to build bridges between the U.S. and Muslim-majority countries. As head of state, Obama represented American values and aspirations for a more cooperative global future, using diplomacy to address longstanding tensions.
President is the head of state:
How can the president be seen as the head of government? e.g. policy leadership and domestic legislation (use two examples)
President Joe Biden’s American Rescue Plan (2021):
In 2021, President Joe Biden focused on revitalizing the U.S. economy following the severe economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. His American Rescue Plan was a $1.9 trillion stimulus package aimed at providing financial relief to individuals, businesses, and state governments. The plan included direct payments to Americans, extended unemployment benefits, funds for vaccination programs, and support for schools and local governments. Biden’s strong leadership and ability to push for this package through a deeply divided Congress showed his role as the head of government, able to drive domestic policy to help stabilize the country in the midst of a crisis.
President Donald Trump’s Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (2017):
In 2017, President Donald Trump pushed for and succeeded in passing the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, a major tax reform bill that significantly reduced the corporate tax rate from 35% to 21% and lowered individual income tax rates. The bill was designed to stimulate economic growth by making U.S. businesses more competitive globally. Trump’s leadership in promoting and negotiating this legislation through Congress demonstrated his power as head of government to influence tax policy, which directly impacts the federal budget, economic growth, and public welfare.
President is the head of state:
How can the president be seen as the head of government? e.g. Executive orders (use two examples)
President Joe Biden’s Executive Orders on Climate Change (2021):
Upon taking office in 2021, President Joe Biden made tackling climate change a top priority. Through a series of executive orders, he rejoined the Paris Climate Agreement, which the U.S. had withdrawn from under President Trump, and directed federal agencies to take steps to reduce carbon emissions and promote clean energy initiatives. One notable executive action was halting the construction of the Keystone XL pipeline, which had been a contentious project due to its potential environmental impact. These orders reflected Biden’s role as head of government, where he could take immediate executive action to address climate change, signaling a shift in U.S. policy at the federal level.
President Barack Obama’s Executive Order on DACA (2012):
In 2012, President Barack Obama issued the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) executive order, which provided temporary protection from deportation for undocumented immigrants brought to the U.S. as children. Obama’s executive order allowed nearly 800,000 individuals to stay in the U.S. without fear of deportation, which was a significant move to address immigration reform, especially as Congress had not passed comprehensive immigration reform at that time. The order highlighted Obama’s authority as head of government to take swift action on critical domestic issues, even when Congress failed to pass legislation on the matter.
Formal sources of the presidential powers:
What are the informal sources of presidential powers and where can they be seen? e.g. the cabinet shaping policy
President Joe Biden’s Cabinet Appointments (2021):
Upon taking office in 2021, President Joe Biden selected a diverse and experienced cabinet, aiming to reflect the country’s demographics and address urgent issues like the COVID-19 pandemic and climate change. Notably, Biden appointed Janet Yellen as the first woman to serve as Secretary of the Treasury, and Antony Blinken as Secretary of State, signaling priorities in economic recovery and foreign policy. The cabinet’s advice and expertise helped Biden formulate plans for economic stimulus, climate action, and public health, demonstrating how the president relies on this informal power to guide the administration.
President Donald Trump’s Cabinet and Policy Implementation (2017-2020):
During Donald Trump’s presidency, his cabinet played a significant role in advancing his “America First” agenda. For example, Secretary of Defense James Mattis provided crucial military advice, while Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos pushed for changes in public education policy, including promoting school choice. These cabinet officials influenced policy decisions, and Trump’s use of informal powers, such as selecting advisors who aligned with his values, allowed him to direct the government’s actions effectively. The cabinet, as an extension of the president, worked closely with him to implement and adjust policies across various sectors.
Formal sources of the presidential powers:
What are the informal sources of presidential powers and where can they be seen? e.g. powers of persuasion (use two examples)
President Barack Obama’s Use of Persuasion to Pass the Affordable Care Act (2010):
In 2010, President Barack Obama used his power of persuasion to secure the passage of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), also known as Obamacare. He personally met with key members of Congress, negotiated with senators, and made speeches to the public, emphasizing the importance of healthcare reform. Despite opposition, Obama’s ability to communicate effectively and rally public support helped him push through this landmark piece of legislation. His informal power to persuade legislators was crucial in overcoming political obstacles and passing the ACA.
President Donald Trump’s Persuasion on Tax Reform (2017):
In 2017, President Donald Trump used his powers of persuasion to push for the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, a significant tax overhaul that lowered corporate taxes and reduced individual tax rates. Trump held meetings with lawmakers, hosted rallies, and made public speeches to rally support for the bill, which was a central promise of his campaign. His persuasive skills were essential in gaining enough support from Republicans in Congress to pass the bill despite some opposition within his own party.
Formal sources of the presidential powers:
What are the informal sources of presidential powers and where can they be seen? e.g. vice president support and decision making (use two examples)
Vice President Joe Biden’s Role in Negotiating the American Recovery Act (2009):
During President Obama’s first term, Vice President Joe Biden played a key role in helping to negotiate and pass the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act in 2009. Biden was tasked with working directly with members of Congress, particularly Senate Republicans, to garner bipartisan support for the $787 billion economic stimulus package. His longstanding relationships in Congress and ability to negotiate helped Obama secure passage of the act, showcasing how the vice president can influence policy and support the president’s legislative agenda.
Vice President Kamala Harris’s Role in the Senate (2021):
In 2021, Vice President Kamala Harris used her role as president of the Senate to break ties and play a crucial part in passing key legislation, such as the American Rescue Plan and nominee confirmations. Harris’s vote became pivotal when the Senate was split 50-50 between Democrats and Republicans, allowing her to cast the tie-breaking vote on several occasions. This highlighted how the vice president can serve as a key informal power in ensuring the success of the president’s legislative initiatives, particularly in a closely divided Congress.
The presidency:
How does the nature of presidential power change positively? e.g. crisis management (use two examples)
President Joe Biden’s Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic (2021):
Upon taking office in 2021, President Joe Biden faced the ongoing COVID-19 crisis. He immediately utilized presidential power to push forward a massive national vaccination campaign, signing executive orders to ramp up vaccine production, distribution, and federal support to states. Biden also secured $1.9 trillion in pandemic relief through the American Rescue Plan, providing financial assistance to individuals, businesses, and healthcare providers. His decisive actions during this health crisis demonstrated how presidential power could be positively leveraged to manage an urgent national emergency and restore public health and economic stability.
President George W. Bush’s Response to Hurricane Katrina (2005):
After Hurricane Katrina devastated the Gulf Coast in 2005, President George W. Bush faced intense criticism for the federal government’s slow response. However, in the aftermath, Bush took action to increase the federal response, deploying military resources, and approving billions in federal aid to the affected areas. The government’s ability to mobilize resources under presidential leadership eventually helped with recovery efforts, improving Bush’s image and demonstrating how a president’s leadership during a national crisis can positively influence their power to act and shape public perception.
The presidency:
How does the nature of presidential power change positively? e.g. leadership (influencing legislation and public policy) (use two examples)
President Barack Obama’s Affordable Care Act (2010):
In 2010, President Barack Obama demonstrated the positive shift in his presidential power when he succeeded in passing the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Obama used his executive leadership and persuasive powers to push for healthcare reform, one of his most significant campaign promises. Despite a deeply divided Congress, he was able to negotiate with lawmakers, rally public support, and successfully pass this landmark healthcare legislation. This exemplifies how the president can positively expand their power by successfully driving major legislative changes that have a lasting impact on the nation.
President Donald Trump’s Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (2017):
In 2017, President Donald Trump exercised his presidential power to push for and successfully pass the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, a major overhaul of the tax code. Trump’s leadership in navigating the legislative process, working with both Republican lawmakers and business leaders, resulted in a significant reduction of corporate tax rates and changes to individual tax brackets. His ability to guide and influence Congress through negotiation and public persuasion demonstrated a positive expansion of presidential power to shape domestic economic policy.
The presidency:
How does the nature of presidential power change negatively? e.g. Overreach of executive powers (Ultra vires) (use two examples)
President Barack Obama’s Deferred Action for Parents of Americans (DAPA) (2014):
In 2014, President Barack Obama used his executive power to implement the Deferred Action for Parents of Americans (DAPA) program, which would have granted legal protections to undocumented immigrants who had children that were U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents. This action was heavily criticized as an overreach of executive power because it bypassed Congress, which had failed to pass comprehensive immigration reform. The program was eventually blocked by the courts, illustrating how executive overreach can lead to legal challenges and a weakening of presidential power when it is perceived to exceed constitutional bounds.
President Donald Trump’s Use of Emergency Powers for Border Wall Funding (2019):
In 2019, President Donald Trump declared a national emergency to access additional funding for the construction of a border wall, bypassing Congress’s refusal to allocate the money. While the Trump administration argued this was necessary for national security, critics saw it as an abuse of emergency powers and a violation of the separation of powers. The use of this emergency declaration to fund the wall without Congressional approval led to legal battles and contributed to a negative perception of presidential overreach in matters of public policy and national spending.
The presidency:
How does the nature of presidential power change negatively? e.g. lack of bipartisanship (use two examples)
Example 1: President Donald Trump’s Difficulty in Passing Gun Control Legislation (2017-2018):
In the aftermath of mass shootings, President Donald Trump expressed support for stronger gun control laws, particularly after the Parkland shooting in 2018. However, despite initial indications that Trump might push for legislative changes, his inability to rally bipartisan support in Congress meant that no significant gun control legislation was passed during his presidency. This failure highlighted how a lack of cooperation between the president and Congress can prevent the president from effectively using their influence to enact critical domestic policies.
President Barack Obama’s Struggles with Immigration Reform (2011-2014):
During President Barack Obama’s second term, he faced significant challenges in passing comprehensive immigration reform, despite making it a top priority. His efforts to work with Congress were met with resistance, especially from Republicans, leading to legislative gridlock. Although Obama used his executive powers to implement measures like DACA, the inability to pass a long-term solution through Congress weakened his ability to address immigration issues comprehensively, showcasing how lack of bipartisan cooperation can limit presidential power.:
The presidency:
How does having a positive relationship with Congress help the President? e.g. legislative success (passing laws) (use two examples)
President Joe Biden’s American Rescue Plan (2021):
In 2021, President Joe Biden was able to pass his $1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan, which aimed to provide economic relief due to the COVID-19 pandemic, largely thanks to a positive relationship with Congress. Though the bill was passed with only Democratic votes in a divided Congress, Biden’s skillful negotiations and personal outreach to Congressional leaders helped unite his party and gain support for this major legislative effort. Biden’s engagement with key moderates like Senator Joe Manchin of West Virginia and Representative Abigail Spanberger of Virginia helped smooth out internal differences, securing enough votes to pass the bill. This demonstrates how fostering strong relations with Congress can lead to swift passage of critical legislation, especially when the country faces pressing crises.
President Barack Obama’s Affordable Care Act (2010):
President Barack Obama’s ability to maintain strong ties with Democratic leaders in Congress played a critical role in the passage of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) in 2010. While passing such landmark legislation was highly contentious, Obama’s engagement with Congress through one-on-one meetings and addressing the concerns of key Senators, like Senator Ben Nelson from Nebraska, was crucial in securing the necessary votes. The ACA expanded healthcare access to millions of Americans and is a landmark achievement of Obama’s presidency. This example underscores how a positive relationship with Congress, combined with active negotiation and compromise, allows the president to pass transformative and complex legislation.
The presidency:
How does having a positive relationship with Congress help the President? e.g. budgetary support (securing funding for policies) (use two examples)
President Donald Trump’s Defense Spending (2018-2019):
In 2018, President Donald Trump worked closely with Congress to increase military spending, securing significant boosts to the defense budget. Despite opposition from some Democrats, Trump maintained a solid relationship with Republican Congressional leaders who prioritized defense spending, resulting in the passage of the National Defense Authorization Act for 2018 and 2019. This legislation authorized $700 billion in defense spending in 2018 and $716 billion in 2019, supporting Trump’s agenda to strengthen the military. The strong partnership between the White House and Congress helped fulfill Trump’s priorities of modernizing defense systems and increasing the U.S. military’s readiness.
President Joe Biden’s Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (2021):
President Joe Biden’s $1.2 trillion Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act in 2021 marked a significant achievement in improving the nation’s infrastructure. Biden’s positive relationship with both Democrats and Republicans in Congress allowed him to secure bipartisan support for this bill, which focuses on upgrading roads, bridges, broadband, and investing in clean energy projects. Biden’s outreach to centrist Democrats like Senator Kyrsten Sinema and Republicans such as Senator Rob Portman helped overcome partisan divides. By fostering cooperation across party lines, Biden was able to secure the votes needed to pass this historic bill, showing how a positive relationship with Congress is key to securing funding for national priorities.
The presidency:
How does having a negative relationship with Congress hinder the President? e.g. lack of legislative success (not being able to pass laws) (use two examples)
President Donald Trump’s Border Wall Funding Dispute (2019):
In 2019, President Donald Trump faced significant resistance from Congress over his demand for funding to build a wall along the southern border. Despite the President’s insistence, the Democratic-controlled House of Representatives, in particular, refused to allocate the funds Trump requested for the wall, leading to a government shutdown that lasted for 35 days—the longest in U.S. history. This dispute reflected the deep division between Trump and Congressional Democrats, preventing any compromise or passage of legislation to resolve the funding issue. The conflict over border wall funding is an example of how a negative relationship with Congress can result in legislative gridlock and impede the President’s ability to enact major policy changes.
President Barack Obama’s “Grand Bargain” with Republicans (2011):
In 2011, President Barack Obama sought to negotiate a “Grand Bargain” with Republicans in Congress to reduce the national deficit by cutting spending and raising revenue. However, despite months of talks, the negative relationship between Obama and Republican leadership—marked by mistrust and opposition—led to an impasse. While Obama was able to secure some compromises, including the Budget Control Act of 2011, much of the comprehensive deal he had hoped for was never realized due to ongoing divisions between the White House and Congress. This scenario highlights how a lack of cooperation and a negative relationship with Congress can limit the president’s legislative achievements and prevent significant policy reforms.
The presidency:
How does having a negative relationship with Congress hinder the President? e.g. lack of funding (use two examples)
President Donald Trump’s Budget Cuts (2017):
In 2017, President Donald Trump proposed a budget that called for significant cuts to domestic programs, including Medicaid, education, and housing assistance. However, his relationship with Congress, particularly with members of his own party, became strained as many Republicans in Congress, especially those in moderate districts, rejected his proposed cuts. These budget proposals faced significant opposition, and many of the proposed reductions were either scaled back or abandoned. This is a clear example of how a negative relationship with Congress can limit the president’s ability to secure the budgetary support necessary for his policy goals.
President Joe Biden’s Build Back Better Plan (2021):
In 2021, President Joe Biden proposed the Build Back Better Plan, a large social spending package that aimed to address climate change, healthcare, and education. However, despite Biden’s initial support in Congress, his relationship with moderate Democrats like Senator Joe Manchin and Senator Kyrsten Sinema became strained as they objected to the bill’s price tag and certain provisions. As a result, the bill’s scope was significantly reduced, and its passage became uncertain. Biden’s difficulties in maintaining a strong relationship with key members of his own party contributed to a lack of support for his budgetary priorities, which demonstrates how a negative relationship with Congress can prevent the president from securing the necessary funding for major initiatives.
The imperial presidency:
How can the USA be seen to be an imperial presidency? e.g. executive overreach (ultra vires) (use two examples)
President Donald Trump’s Use of Executive Orders (2017-2020):
In his presidency, Donald Trump relied heavily on executive orders to implement policy changes without needing Congressional approval. One notable example was his 2017 Executive Order on Immigration that instituted a travel ban on several Muslim-majority countries, which was done without waiting for Congress to pass legislation. While the order was challenged in the courts and revised multiple times, Trump’s use of executive orders during his presidency showcased an attempt to bypass legislative processes, a hallmark of imperial presidential power. His approach to enacting policy through executive action rather than through the more transparent and democratic process of lawmaking is indicative of the “imperial presidency” concept.
President Barack Obama’s Executive Actions on Immigration (2014):
In 2014, President Barack Obama used executive action to implement the Deferred Action for Parents of Americans (DAPA) program, which aimed to protect undocumented immigrants from deportation. Obama’s decision to use executive power to address the issue of immigration was seen as controversial because it was done without Congressional approval. The action was part of Obama’s broader strategy to tackle immigration reform after Congress failed to pass legislation on the matter. Critics argued that Obama was overstepping his constitutional authority by using executive action to enact broad policy changes that typically require legislative approval, reinforcing the idea of an imperial presidency.
The imperial presidency:
How can the USA be seen to be an imperial presidency? e.g. military intervention (use two examples)
President Barack Obama’s Military Intervention in Libya (2011):
In 2011, President Barack Obama authorized military intervention in Libya without obtaining approval from Congress. This was done as part of a NATO-led operation to enforce a no-fly zone and protect civilians from Libyan dictator Muammar Gaddafi’s forces. Despite the fact that the War Powers Resolution requires the president to seek Congressional approval for military actions lasting longer than 60 days, Obama did not consult with Congress before the intervention, arguing that it was within his constitutional authority. Critics argued that Obama’s decision to act unilaterally in Libya, without Congressional approval or consultation, represented an imperial use of executive power to dictate foreign military policy.
President Donald Trump’s Airstrike on Soleimani (2020):
In 2020, President Donald Trump authorized a targeted airstrike in Iraq that killed Qasem Soleimani, a top Iranian general. The strike was carried out without Congressional authorization and was widely debated regarding whether it violated the War Powers Resolution, which limits the president’s ability to use military force without Congressional consent. Critics contended that this was an example of the president exercising imperial powers, as the action could have escalated tensions with Iran and potentially led to a broader conflict without the input of Congress. The airstrike demonstrated the significant military power the president wields, and how, in some cases, military interventions can occur with little oversight from the legislative branch.
The imperial presidency:
How can the USA be seen to be an imperilled presidency? e.g. congressional opposition (use two examples)
President Trump’s Government Shutdown (2018-2019):
In 2018, President Donald Trump faced significant opposition from Congress over his demand for funding to build a wall along the U.S.-Mexico border. When the House of Representatives, controlled by the Democrats, refused to approve the $5.7 billion he requested, Trump pushed for a government shutdown in order to force the issue. The shutdown lasted 35 days, the longest in U.S. history, and resulted in severe disruptions to federal services, including unpaid government workers. This conflict between Trump and Congress not only highlighted the difficulty the president faced in implementing his policy but also illustrated how legislative opposition can challenge the president’s authority and undermine his agenda, making his presidency appear imperiled.
President Obama’s Opposition to Immigration Reform (2013):
In 2013, President Barack Obama made a significant push for comprehensive immigration reform, a key part of his second-term agenda. Despite having a Democratic-controlled Senate, the proposal faced intense opposition from the Republican-controlled House of Representatives. The Border Security, Economic Opportunity, and Immigration Modernization Act passed the Senate with bipartisan support, but it never received a vote in the House, largely due to Republican opposition. This inability to pass immigration reform, despite widespread public support, severely hampered Obama’s ability to implement his desired policies, showcasing how congressional gridlock and opposition can impede a president’s agenda and contribute to the perception of an imperiled presidency.
The imperial presidency:
How can the USA be seen to be an imperilled presidency? e.g. loss of public support (use two examples)
President George W. Bush’s Declining Approval Ratings During the Iraq War (2006-2008):
In 2006, President George W. Bush experienced a sharp decline in public approval, primarily due to the ongoing and increasingly unpopular Iraq War. By 2008, his approval ratings had fallen to the lowest levels of his presidency, dipping below 30%. Public dissatisfaction with the war’s progress, the rising number of American casualties, and concerns over the war’s effectiveness contributed to this loss of support. As his popularity waned, Bush found it more difficult to pass significant legislation or maintain support within his own party. The public’s diminishing trust in his leadership made his presidency appear imperiled, with many questioning his ability to lead effectively.
President Donald Trump’s Declining Approval Ratings During the COVID-19 Pandemic (2020):
During 2020, President Donald Trump faced a severe erosion of public support, primarily due to his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. By April 2020, his approval ratings dropped as the pandemic spread across the United States, and many Americans criticized his delayed response and mixed messages on health guidelines. Public disapproval of his handling of the crisis intensified as unemployment rates soared, and the nation faced widespread health and economic uncertainty. This declining approval, especially from key voter groups, severely weakened his ability to lead effectively. Despite attempts to rally the public, the negative perception surrounding his handling of the pandemic and the economic fallout made his presidency feel imperiled, particularly with the approach of the 2020 election.
