The Presidency

Flashcards about the US Presidency

Presidential Powers

Powers are outlined in Article II of the Constitution.

Congress's Check on Presidential Power

The power to impeach and remove a president from office.

Legislative Powers of the President

Recommending legislation, convening Congress, reporting on the State of the Union.

Presidential Actions on Legislation

Signing a bill, vetoing a bill, letting a bill become a law without action, pocket veto.

Line Item Veto

Power to veto particular portions of a bill (declared unconstitutional by the Supreme Court in 1998).

Administrative Powers

One of the President’s most important powers is in the implementation of public policies.

Executive Orders

Rules or regulations issued by an executive official to an administrative agency or executive department.

National Security Powers of the President

Commander in chief, grants diplomatic recognition, negotiates treaties and executive agreements.

War Powers Resolution (1973)

Requires presidents to consult with Congress on military matters and mandates troop withdrawal after 60 days without Congressional authorization.

Judicial Powers of the President

Nominates federal judges and grants pardons and reprieves for federal offenses.

Offices Assisting the President

15 Cabinet departments, Executive Office of the President, White House Office, Vice President, First Lady.

Executive Office of the President

National Security Council, Council of Economic Advisors, Office of Management and Budget (OMB).

Factors Influencing Presidential Leadership in Congress

Partisan support in Congress, public support (approval ratings and electoral mandates).

Legislative Skills of the President

Bargaining, taking advantage of the “honeymoon” period, and setting priorities.