Unit 3 Flashcards
Primary Diplomatic Power of the President
The president has the power to negotiate treaties and recognize foreign governments, subject to Senate approval.
Role of the Commander-in-Chief
The president is the head of the U.S. armed forces, responsible for military decisions and operations.
The War Powers Resolution (1973)
Limits the president’s ability to send U.S. troops into combat without Congress’s approval; requires notification within 48 hours and limits engagements to 60 days without further authorization.
Executive Branch Bureaucracy
The complex system of agencies and departments under the executive branch responsible for enforcing laws and administering policies.
EOP (Executive Office of the President)
A group of offices and agencies that directly support the president in implementing policies and managing the federal government.
The Chief of Staff
The president’s top advisor and manager of the White House staff, coordinating day-to-day operations.
Whig Theory
A view of presidential power that holds the presidency is a limited or restrained office, confined to exercising only the powers explicitly granted by the Constitution.
Stewardship Theory
A theory of presidential power suggesting the president should act in the nation’s best interest, with broad authority unless explicitly restricted by law.
Executive Order
Directives issued by the president to federal agencies, which have the force of law
Executive Privilege
The president’s power to withhold information from Congress, the courts, or the public, particularly in matters of national security.
Pocket Veto
A type of veto where the president takes no action on a bill for 10 days while Congress is adjourned, effectively preventing it from becoming law.
The State of the Union Address
An annual speech delivered by the president to Congress, outlining the administration’s agenda and priorities.
Signing Statement
A written pronouncement issued by the president upon signing a bill into law, often reflecting the president’s interpretation or concerns about the legislation.
Reason for Expansion of Presidential Power
Historical events like wars, economic crises, and national emergencies have often led to the expansion of presidential authority.
Power Requiring Senate Confirmation
The president’s appointments to federal judgeships, cabinet positions, and ambassadors require Senate approval.
Supreme Court Case for Executive Privilege
United States v. Nixon (1974), which limited executive privilege in cases of criminal investigation.
National Security Council (NSC)
A presidential advisory body for national security and foreign policy matters, including military, intelligence, and diplomatic considerations.
Cabinet Membership
Composed of the heads of the executive departments and key advisors appointed by the president.
Main Cabinet Members
Secretary of State, Secretary of Defense, Attorney General, Secretary of the Treasury.
Appointment Power
The president’s power to appoint federal officials, judges, ambassadors, and top members of the executive departments, often subject to Senate confirmation.
Role of the Secretary of State
The chief foreign affairs advisor to the president, responsible for international relations and representing the U.S. abroad.
Veto Power
The president’s authority to reject bills passed by Congress, which can only be overridden by a two-thirds majority in both houses.
Bureaucracy
A large, complex organization that operates under a set of established rules and procedures.
EOP Structure
Includes the White House Office, National Security Council, Office of Management and Budget (OMB), and other advisory bodies.
