Issues in U.S. Politics - The Federal System

Executive orders: Directive issued by the president like a temporary law that can be disapproved by Congress;

Commander-in-chief: President who exercises supreme command over the military branch;

War Powers Act (1973): Law passed over President Nixon’s veto to reassert Congress’s constitutional authority in military actions;

Power to pardon: President’s power to grant pardons and reprieves for federal offenses;

Political capital: Influence a politician holds to achieve policy goals;

Power to persuade: When the president goes directly to the public to gain support for policies instead of negotiating;

Presidential approval ratings: Measure of public support for the president;

Executive Office of the President: Office that comprises all executive affairs;

Office of Management and Budget (OMB): Assists the president with budgetary and management responsibilities;