US Presidency Flashcards
What are the formal powers granted to the president by the US Constitution?
Chief Executive, Commander-in-Chief, Legislative Powers, Appointment Powers, Foreign Policy Powers, Pardon Power
These powers are explicitly listed in the Constitution.
What is the role of the president as Chief Executive?
Enforces laws, oversees the federal bureaucracy
This role involves ensuring that federal laws are implemented effectively.
What does the Commander-in-Chief power entail?
Leads the US armed forces
This power gives the president authority over military operations.
What legislative powers does the president possess?
Signs or vetoes bills, delivers the State of the Union address
These powers allow the president to influence the legislative process.
What are the Appointment Powers of the president?
Nominates Supreme Court justices, federal judges, and executive officials (with Senate confirmation)
This power is crucial for shaping the judicial and executive branches.
What are the Foreign Policy Powers of the president?
Negotiates treaties (requires Senate ratification), appoints ambassadors
These powers are essential for managing international relations.
What is the Pardon Power?
Can grant pardons for federal crimes
This power allows the president to forgive individuals for federal offenses.
What are informal powers of the president?
Executive Orders, Executive Agreements, Bully Pulpit, Agenda-Setting, Party Leader, Signing Statements, Crisis Manager
These powers have evolved over time and are not explicitly stated in the Constitution.
What is an Executive Order?
Directives issued by the president that have the force of law
An example includes Biden’s executive order on climate change.
What are Executive Agreements?
International agreements made by the president that do not require Senate approval
An example is the Iran Nuclear Deal under Obama.
What is the Bully Pulpit?
The president’s ability to use the media to influence public opinion and Congress
This power allows the president to advocate for policies effectively.
What does Agenda-Setting refer to in the context of the presidency?
The president can propose policies and pressure Congress to act
An example is Obama’s push for the Affordable Care Act.
What is the role of the president as Party Leader?
Leads their political party, influencing elections and policy direction
This role is significant for shaping party platforms and strategies.
What are Signing Statements?
Used to interpret or challenge parts of a law when signing it into effect
These statements can influence how laws are implemented.
What does the president do as a Crisis Manager?
Responds to national emergencies
Examples include Bush after 9/11 and Trump during COVID-19.
What is a lame duck?
a lame duck is an elected official whose successor has already been elected or will be soon
What did Trump replace NAFTA with in 2020?
USMCA
