Unit 3: The Executive Branch; Political Parties; Campaigns and Elections

What are the three constitutional requirements to be President?

Must be a natural-born U.S. citizen, at least 35 years old, and a U.S. resident for at least 14 years.

What is one unique requirement for the Vice President?

Cannot be from the same state as the President.

What are common informal qualifications for U.S. Presidents?

College education, military or government experience, and typically being white, male, Protestant, and married.

When is the President inaugurated?

January 20th.

What did the 20th Amendment do to Inauguration Day?

Moved it from March to January to reduce the “lame duck” period.

How long is one term for a U.S. President?

Four years.

What tradition did George Washington start?

Serving only two terms.

What does the 22nd Amendment say about term limits?

A President can only be elected twice, and if they serve more than 2 years of someone else’s term, they can only be elected once more.

What is the annual salary of the U.S. President?

$400,000 per year.

Name three perks the President receives besides salary.

Access to the White House with 100+ staff, Air Force One and jets, $50,000 expense account, top-tier health care, Camp David retreat, pension and Secret Service for 10 years post-office.

What are the main roles of the Vice President?

• "President-in-waiting"

• Breaks ties in Senate votes

• Assists with presidential disability under the 25th Amendment

• Chairs commissions, meets with foreign leaders

• Takes on responsibilities given by the President

What happens if the President dies, resigns, or is removed?

The Vice President becomes President.

How is a new Vice President selected if there's a vacancy?

The President appoints one, and both Houses of Congress must approve.

When can the Vice President become acting President?

If the President is temporarily unable to serve

Can the President return to power?

Yes, by declaring themselves fit—unless the VP, majority of the Cabinet, and 2/3 of Congress disagree

What did the Presidential Succession Act of 1947 do?

Established the order of succession after the VP:

1. Speaker of the House

2. President pro tempore of the Senate

3. Cabinet heads in order of department creation