AP Gov Unit 2 Executive Branch

This flashcard set covers the second part of Unit 2, focusing solely on the executive branch.

Formal (Constitutional) powers

Presidential powers explicitly written in the Constitution (or clearly implied), providing the strongest legal basis for presidential action.

Informal powers

Presidential powers not listed in the Constitution but used in practice due to politics, public expectations, and the president’s position in the system.

Chief Executive

The president’s role as head of the executive branch, responsible for enforcing and administering federal laws through executive departments and agencies.

“Take Care” Clause

Constitutional requirement that the president “take care that the laws be faithfully executed,” forming the basis for enforcement and administration of laws.

Commander in Chief

The president’s role as top leader of the U.S. armed forces; allows rapid military decision-making but does not eliminate Congress’s war and funding powers.

War Powers Resolution (1973)

A law intended to limit unilateral presidential military action by requiring notice to Congress and setting time constraints unless Congress authorizes continued involvement.

Chief Diplomat

The president’s role in directing U.S. foreign policy and negotiating with other nations, including making treaties and using other diplomatic tools.

Treaty

A formal international agreement negotiated by the president that requires “advice and consent” of the Senate (two-thirds approval) to take effect.

Executive Agreement

An international agreement made by the president without the formal treaty process; often more flexible than treaties and can bypass a Senate treaty vote.

State of the Union

A presidential address/report to Congress that recommends priorities, frames national conditions, and helps set the legislative agenda.

Veto power

The president’s power to reject legislation passed by Congress; Congress can override with a two-thirds vote in both chambers, and veto threats can shape bills before passage.

Appointment power

The president’s authority to nominate high-level officials (ex: Cabinet members, ambassadors, federal judges), often requiring Senate confirmation; staffing choices shape policy implementation.

Executive order

A presidential directive that manages operations of the federal government by instructing executive agencies how to implement or prioritize existing law; subject to statutory limits and judicial review.

Bully Pulpit

The presidency’s platform for attracting attention, shaping public opinion, and setting the national agenda; influence comes from visibility rather than direct command over Congress.

22nd Amendment

Limits the president to 2 terms, or 10 years, in office

12th Amendment

Established the procedure for electing the president and vice president, separating their election to prevent tie votes.

20th Amendment

Moved the inauguration of the president from March to January 20th to limit the “lame duck” period

25th Amendment

Clarifies presidential succession and disability procedures, providing a process for filling a vacancy in the vice presidency.

Executive Offices of the President

The group of agencies and staff that support the President of the United States in executing their duties and managing the executive branch. This includes offices like the Office of Management and Budget and the National Security Council.

National Security Council

A group within the Executive Office of the President that advises the president on national security and foreign policy issues, coordinating these policies among various government agencies.

Office of Management and Budget

The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) is a key agency in the Executive Office of the President that assists in preparing the federal budget and overseeing its implementation, ensuring efficient allocation of federal resources.

Appointment positions that require Senate approval

are positions that must be confirmed by the Senate before the individual can officially take office, including high-level roles such as federal judges and cabinet members.

Impeachment

The process by which a federal official, including the President, is charged with misconduct and may be removed from office if convicted by Congress.

Federalist 70

An essay written by Alexander Hamilton advocating for a strong, energetic executive leader in government, arguing that a single president would provide accountability and effective leadership.

Social Media

Has a very strong influence on political opinions, shaping public discourse and engagement in the democratic process.