AP GOV presidency

Divided Government

When the presidency and Congress are controlled by different parties.

Twenty-Second Amendment

Limits the president to two terms.

Twenty-Fifth Amendment

Establishes presidential succession and procedures for disability.

Impeachment

The process of charging a president with misconduct, which can lead to removal if convicted by the Senate.

Watergate

Scandal involving Nixon’s abuse of power, leading to his resignation.

Commander in Chief

The president's role as leader of the armed forces.

State of the Union

Annual speech where the president outlines policy goals.

Executive Orders

Directives issued by the president that have the force of law.

Cabinet

Advisors heading executive departments who aid the president in decision-making.

Executive Agreements

International agreements made by the president without Senate approval.

Treaty

A formal agreement between countries requiring Senate ratification.

National Security Council (NSC)

Advises the president on foreign and military policy.

Office of Management and Budget (OMB)

Prepares the federal budget.

Council of Economic Advisers (CEA)

Advises the president on economic policy.

Pocket Veto

When the president lets a bill die by not signing it within 10 days while Congress is not in session.

Signing Statement

President’s interpretation of a law when signing it.

Presidential Coattails

When voters elect members of Congress based on their support for the president.

Bully Pulpit

The president’s use of public visibility to influence public opinion.

War Powers Resolution

Limits the president's ability to deploy troops without Congress's approval.

Legislative Veto

Congressional ability to override executive actions, ruled unconstitutional.

Honeymoon Period

Early months of a presidency when approval ratings are high, and Congress is more cooperative.

Imperial Presidency

The concept that the presidency has gained more power than intended by the Constitution.

Impeachment Process

House of Representatives drafts articles of impeachment followed by a Senate trial.

Divided Government

Occurs when the presidency and at least one chamber of Congress are controlled by different parties.

War Powers Resolution (1973)

Limits the president's ability to deploy U.S. armed forces without congressional approval.