USA #1: Political System Flashcards
“Describe, in detail, the powers of the president” (6)
Another power of the president is that he can create executive orders. This means that he can take action on issues he feels strongly about. Evidence of this is when Biden signed an executive order that aimed to protect access to reproductive healthcare in July 2022.
One power of the president is being head of state. This means that he makes treaties and deals and he is also the public representative of the USA. Evidence of this is when Joe Biden travelled to Japan for the G7 summit in 2023, and spoke with other leaders about providing financial and military aid to Ukraine.
“Describe, in detail, the limitations of the president’s power” (6)
Another limitation of the President power is in his role as chief executive. This means that, ultimately, the Supreme Court make the decisions based on pre-existing laws, and he can only uphold these decisions. Evidence of this is when Supreme Court overturned Roe V Wade, which Biden was opposed to. (June 2022)
One limitation of the president’s power is in his role as chief legislator. This means that, although he can veto bills, Congress can override this veto with a 2/3 majority in both the House of Representatives and in the House of Senate. Evidence of this is when Congress overturned Trump’s veto of a defence spending bill in January 2021.
“Describe, in detail, the US political system (executive, judiciary, legislative?)” (6)
One aspect of the US political system is the legislative of branch. This means that laws are passed in Congress, made up of two houses. Evidence of this is the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act passed in June 2022, which introduced more rules on gun ownership.
Another aspect of the US political system is the judiciary branch. This means that the Supreme Court has the ultimate power over all federal court cases. Evidence of this is when they overturned Roe V Wade in June 2022.
“Describe, in detail, rights that US citizens have (bear arms, vote, free speech)” (6)
One right that US citizens have is the right to protest. This means that they are free to profess their opinions publicly. Evidence of this was the Black Lives Matter movement, prominent in 2020.
One right that US citizens have is the have the right to vote. This means that they have input on what happens in their country. Evidence of this is the Presidential election that takes place every 4 years.
