Presidential Unit Civics 12th grade (H)

What influence did the Articles of Confederation have on the creation of the executive branch under the Constitution?

The Articles of Confederation created a weak national government with no executive branch, which showed the need for a stronger, centralized leadership. This led to the creation of the presidency in the Constitution to enforce laws and unify national authority.

What powers does the Constitution grant the President? Remember these are called enumerated powers. Where in the Constitution are these powers listed?

The Constitution grants the President powers like vetoing laws, making treaties, appointing officials, and commanding the military. These enumerated powers are listed in Article II, Sections 2 and 3.

What are inherent powers? When have they been exercised by different presidents over the years? What limits are placed on inherent powers?

Inherent powers are not explicitly stated in the Constitution but are necessary for the President to fulfill duties. Examples include Lincoln suspending habeas corpus and Truman seizing steel mills; however, courts and Congress can limit these powers.

How is mandate related to inherent powers?

A mandate is public support shown through election, which can justify the President's use of broader or inherent powers. It gives political strength but not legal authority.

What is executive privilege?

Executive privilege allows the President to withhold information from Congress or the courts for national security or confidentiality. It's not in the Constitution but has been upheld in limited ways by the courts.

What checks are made on presidential powers?

Presidential powers are checked by Congress (laws, impeachment), the courts (judicial review), and public opinion. These prevent the President from acting unilaterally or abusing power.

What is and where does the power to pardon come from? Are there any rules or limits on this power?

The power to pardon is found in Article II, Section 2 of the Constitution and allows the President to forgive federal crimes. It has no formal limits except it can't be used in cases of impeachment.

List the different roles of the President. How does the president fulfill the role of each?

1. Chief Executive – Enforces federal laws and runs the executive branch through appointments and executive orders.

2. Commander in Chief – Leads the military and can deploy troops, though only Congress can declare war.

3. Chief Diplomat – Directs foreign policy, negotiates treaties, and meets with foreign leaders.

4. Chief Legislator – Influences lawmaking by proposing policies and using veto power.

5. Head of State – Acts as the symbolic leader of the nation, representing the U.S. at ceremonies and events.

6. Economic Leader – Helps plan the federal budget and supports policies that promote economic growth.

7. Party Leader – Leads their political party, supports candidates, and shapes the party platform.

What are the requirements to become President?

To become President, a person must be at least 35 years old, a natural-born U.S. citizen, and have lived in the U.S. for at least 14 years.

What are the terms of office for the President?

The President serves a 4-year term and can be elected to a maximum of two terms.

What are the benefits/compensation for the President?

The President earns $400,000 annually, plus benefits like housing in the White House, travel allowances, and a pension after leaving office.

What is the role and responsibilities of the Veep?

The Vice President’s main roles are to preside over the Senate and break tie votes, and to assume the presidency if the President dies, resigns, or is removed.

What is the order of succession?

 The order of succession is: Vice President, Speaker of the House, President Pro Tempore of the Senate, then Cabinet members starting with Secretary of State.

Where is this process in the Constitution? 

 The Constitution mentions succession in Article II, Section 1 and the 25th Amendment.

What determined this order?

 The Presidential Succession Act of 1947 determined the full order beyond the Vice President.

Who is the designated survivor?

The designated survivor is a Cabinet member kept at a secure location during events like the State of the Union in case the top officials are killed or incapacitated.

What are the different Cabinet departments?

There are 15 Cabinet departments, including State, Defense, Treasury, Justice, Homeland Security, and others, each focusing on a key area of federal responsibility.

How does the national budget indicate the importance of each department?

The national budget shows priorities by allocating more funding to departments considered crucial, like Defense or Health and Human Services.

Who approves cabinet appointments?

Cabinet appointments are nominated by the President and must be approved by the Senate.

Who is and what is the role of the White House chief of staff?

The White House Chief of Staff is the President’s top aide, managing staff, schedules, and access to the President, playing a key role in policy and political strategy.

Identify and explain the importance of each of the following.

Independent Agencies

Government Corporations

Regulatory Commissions

1. Independent Agencies (e.g., NASA, CIA) operate outside Cabinet departments and focus on specific issues;

2. Government Corporations (e.g., USPS, Amtrak) run like businesses but serve public needs;

3. Regulatory Commissions (e.g., FCC, SEC) make and enforce rules to protect the public interest in areas like communications or finance.

What is the Civil Service? What is its purpose/functions today?

 The Civil Service is the permanent, professional part of the government workforce hired based on merit. Its purpose is to provide stable, nonpartisan expertise and continuity in government operations.

   What is the bureaucracy? What are the benefits and pitfalls of the bureaucracy?

 The bureaucracy is the system of agencies and departments that implement federal laws and policies. Benefits include expertise and efficiency; pitfalls include red tape, slow processes, and lack of accountability.