Legislative Leader, Economic Planner, and Political Party Leader

article II, section 3

president “from time to time gives to congress information of STATE OF THE UNION, and recommend to their consideration such measures as he judges necessary and expedient”.

presidential tools to influence congress

veto

president tries/needs to be in favor of congress

may start a new federal project that will bring money and jobs to a member’s home state or district

veto

10 days to sign or veto (reject)

If the president takes no action in 10 days, the bill becomes a law without his or her signature

pocket veto- if the president takes no action and the Congress adjourns during that 10-day period, the bill does not become a law.

Presidents sometimes use the threat of a veto to force Congress to stop a bill or change it to fit his or her wishes.

Gerald Ford had most vetoes overwritten

1935 banking act

congress gives president power to appoint SEVEN members to direct “the fed”

president also appoints the chairmen in vacancy

federal reserve system

central US banking system

structured to be less subject to political pressures than most agencies

1946 congress employment act

president must submit annual economic report to congress

made Council of Economic Advisors to study and advice president on domestic and international economic policies

said government is responsible for economic prosperity (low unemployment, high stability, high production)

budgeting

president makes annual budget

submits to House of Reps

Cong passes law that makes budget (after debate) and pres can sign or veto

political party leader

party of president expects pres to appoint officials with same beliefs

pres chooses party’s NATIONAL CHAIRMAN

holds events to raise funds for next party’s running