The Executive Branch: Roles and Powers of the President

A set of flashcards covering terminology, roles, and powers of the Executive Branch as outlined in the lecture notes.

Commander-in-Chief

Supreme commander of the US military forces; cannot declare war but can send troops into war-like situations.

Chief of State

Ceremonial head of government, performing duties such as public mourning and official visits.

Chief Executive

Head of the executive branch, responsible for enforcing acts of Congress, federal courts, and treaties.

Chief Legislator

Influences and makes laws, sets agenda during the State of the Union address, and has the power of veto.

Chief Diplomat

Negotiates treaties, recognizes foreign governments, and makes executive agreements without Senate ratification.

War Powers Act (1973)

Legislation allowing the president to send troops without Congressional approval, but for a limited time.

Impeachment Process

A two-part process involving the House introducing articles of impeachment and the Senate holding a trial.

Executive Orders

Orders issued by the president to clarify or enforce existing law.

Executive Privilege

The power of the president to refuse to appear before Congress or answer questions, not absolute and can be challenged.

Cabinet

An advisory group selected by the president to assist in executing presidential duties, established by Article II, Section 2 of the Constitution.

Inherent Powers

Powers assumed over time, interpreted from the Constitution, including emergency powers.

Statutory Powers

Powers derived from laws other than the Constitution, such as the War Powers Act.

First Lady

Traditional role as hostess and ceremonial figure, with possible involvement in policy advocacy.

Checks and Balances

System designed to prevent any one branch of government from gaining too much power.

Expressed Powers

Powers explicitly defined in the Constitution, including the authority to appoint ambassadors and judges.