presidency

Article II powers

The constitutional powers granted to the president in Article II of the U.S. Constitution.

Pardon

The president's authority to forgive someone for a crime, effectively releasing them from punishment.

Treaty-making

The process by which the president negotiates and concludes agreements with other countries.

Commander-in-chief

The president's role as the supreme leader of the armed forces.

Executive privilege

The president's right to keep certain communications confidential.

Signing statements

Comments issued by the president upon signing a bill into law, explaining their interpretation of the law.

Inherent powers

Powers that are not explicitly stated in the Constitution but are implied by the president's role.

Vice President

The second highest executive officer, whose formal roles include being the President of the Senate and a potential successor to the president.

Impeachment

The process by which a president can be removed from office for committing 'high crimes and misdemeanors'.

Bully pulpit

The president's ability to use their platform to influence public opinion.

Unified vs divided control

The distinction between a government where one party controls both the presidency and Congress versus a government where different parties control these branches.