pols 106

What role did the English Crown play in colonial governance?

It served as the original executive authority in the colonies, raising concerns about limited local autonomy and inconsistent governance.

How did colonial governors obtain their authority?

They inherited it from the Crown, leading to tensions over local governance.

What anticipated problems emerged from centralized control in the colonial era?

Limited local autonomy and governance inconsistencies.

What were the structural features of the Articles of Confederation?

No centralized executive branch, delegates were elected by state legislatures, major laws required approval by 9 of 13 states.

What challenges did the Articles of Confederation face?

Inability to manage war debts, difficulties in handling foreign policy, and domestic disorder exemplified by Shays’ Rebellion.

What were the main objectives during the Constitutional Convention regarding executive power?

To define and structure the executive branch and establish methods for presidential selection.

What did the Virginia Plan propose?

A bicameral legislature based on state population, with direct election for the lower chamber.

How did the New Jersey Plan differ from the Virginia Plan?

It proposed a unicameral legislature with equal state representation and a plural executive.

What was the Great Compromise?

The creation of a bicameral legislature: the House based on population and the Senate with equal representation per state.

What are the constitutional roles and powers of the President?

Commander in Chief, Chief Executive, and Legislative Role including signing/vetoing legislation.

What does the document suggest about the balance of power between the executive and Congress?

The Constitution was designed to ensure modest executive power balanced by Congress’s supremacy.

What dual roles were established for the President?

The military leader (Commander in Chief) and chief civil executor (Chief Executive).

How does the Electoral College reflect early compromises?

It serves as the intermediary between the public and the executive, reflecting the Great Compromise.

What is the key takeaway regarding executive power in the Constitution?

The presidency was designed as a limited office to ensure effective government alongside congressional supremacy.

How were presidential candidates chosen in the 19th century?

They were nominated at national conventions by party delegates, often military heroes.

What characterized presidential campaigns and administration during the 19th century?

'Front porch campaigns' where the candidate rarely campaigned directly, and reliance on cabinet government.

What was the role of presidents during crises in the 19th century?

They had influence mainly during critical moments like wars or rebellions.

What changes were driven by the Progressive Era?

Increased demands for federal intervention due to rapid urbanization, industrialization, and immigration.

How did Theodore Roosevelt transform the presidency?

He used the 'stewardship' theory to actively address domestic challenges and innovate presidential communication.

How did Woodrow Wilson contribute to presidential evolution?

He embraced the 'rhetorical presidency,' directly addressing the public and Congress.

What defines Franklin D. Roosevelt’s impact on presidential power?

He expanded federal government involvement through the New Deal and solidified presidential power during WWII.

What are core features of the modern presidency?

Ambitious legislative agendas, direct policymaking through executive orders, and high public visibility.

How has the White House Office contributed to the modern presidency?

It evolved into a central policy and coordination hub, consolidating control over legislative agendas.

What was the 'King Caucus' system?

Party members in Congress selected nominees, limiting direct voter involvement.

How did the Convention System work?

Nominees were chosen at national conventions by party bosses, with uncertain outcomes until the convention.

What led to the modern nomination system post-1972?

The fallout from the 1968 Democratic Convention prompting the McGovern-Fraser Reforms.

What is the 'Invisible Primary'?

An early phase where candidates build support and secure endorsements before elections.

How do primaries and caucuses function today?

State-by-state competitions where candidates vie for delegates, with varying rules.

What role do national conventions play?

They formally ratify nominees and unify the party while serving as major media events.

How is the Electoral College composed?

Each state’s electoral votes equal its total Congressional representation; 270 votes needed to win.

What are key consequences of the Electoral College system?

Winning the popular vote does not always secure the presidency, battles focus on swing states.

What general trend do presidential approval ratings follow?

They typically start high during a 'honeymoon period' and decay over the presidency.

What factors influence presidential approval?

The state of the economy, response to major events, and the ability for effective damage control.

Can a president control public opinion?

No, but they can influence it through crisis handling and public relations.

How has media coverage evolved in shaping presidential approval?

Today, a president’s every move is highly visible, dramatically impacting public opinion.

What does the Affordable Care Act (ACA) example illustrate about campaign promises?

Even strong campaign promises can fail when legislative realities come into play.

What formal legislative responsibilities does the Constitution assign to the President?

The president can call Congress into special session and has the authority to sign or veto legislation.

What does Neustadt’s view of presidential power emphasize?

'Presidential power is the power to persuade,' highlighting negotiation over direct command.

What is meant by 'Going Public' as described by Kernell?

The president appeals directly to the public to support their legislative agenda.

What are examples of unilateral actions taken by presidents?

Executive orders that bypass congressional approval, like Truman’s military desegregation.

How does government alignment affect a president’s legislative success?

A unified government enhances success, while divided government complicates governance.

How do partisan polarization and wartime conditions impact the president’s influence?

Partisan polarization limits cooperation, while wartime conditions can boost presidential power.

What is the significance of the presidential veto?

It is a tool to block unacceptable legislation, with effectiveness depending on congressional dynamics.