Presidential Powers and Responsibilities

A set of flashcards covering key concepts related to presidential powers, responsibilities, and specific terms from the lecture.

Formal powers

Powers of the president specifically stated in the Constitution.

Informal powers

Powers not explicit in the Constitution but needed to carry out the enumerated powers.

Veto

The power of the president to stop a bill from becoming law.

Pocket veto

If a bill arrives on the president's desk and Congress adjourns within ten days, the bill dies if the president does not sign it.

Commander in Chief

The capacity of the president to lead and manage the military.

Executive agreement

A pact between the president and another country without needing congressional approval.

Executive order

Presidential directives that modify or create laws and public policies without congressional approval.

Signing statement

A statement made by the president when signing a bill into law that explains their feelings about the law.

Appointments

The process by which the president selects individuals for cabinet, federal judiciary, ambassador, and other administrative positions, typically subject to Senate approval.

Twenty-Second Amendment

The constitutional amendment limiting the presidency to two terms of four years or a maximum of ten years.

State of the Union

A speech the president is required to give at the beginning of the year outlining the current status and plans for the country.

Bully Pulpit

The term used to describe the immense audience and influence the president has in communication.

Executive privilege

The president's claim to withhold information due to public interest.

Line-item veto

An unconstitutional process allowing presidents to eliminate specific parts of a bill.

Pardon

The president's power to wipe away a conviction for a federal crime.