President

Commander in Chief

The President's role as the leader of the U.S. military forces.

Formal powers

Powers explicitly granted to the President by the Constitution.

Executive agreement

An agreement between the President and a foreign government that doesn’t require Senate approval.

Executive order

A directive issued by the President that manages the operations of the federal government.

Executive privilege

The President's right to keep certain information confidential from Congress and the courts.

Informal powers

Powers not directly stated in the Constitution but exercised by the President through custom or political influence.

Line-item veto

The power to reject specific parts of a bill without vetoing the entire bill.

Pocket veto

The President’s indirect veto by not signing a bill into law within 10 days while Congress is adjourned.

Policy agenda

A set of issues or topics that the President plans to address during their time in office.

Signing statements

A written statement issued by the President when signing a bill into law, explaining their interpretation or concerns.

Veto

The President’s power to reject a bill passed by Congress.

Ambassadors

Officials who represent the U.S. government in foreign countries.

Cabinet

A group of senior officials chosen by the President to lead different government departments.

Chief of Staff

The President’s top aide, who manages the White House staff and helps organize the President’s schedule.

Inherent powers

Powers not explicitly listed in the Constitution but are necessary for the President to perform their duties.

Joint Chiefs of Staff

A group of top military leaders who advise the President on military matters.

Federalist No. 70

An essay by Alexander Hamilton arguing for a strong, energetic executive.

Imperial presidency

A term describing a presidency that has become too powerful, often acting without Congress's approval.

Jackson, Andrew

The 7th President of the U.S., known for expanding the power of the presidency and vetoing bills.

Lincoln, Abraham

The 16th President of the U.S., who expanded presidential power during the Civil War.

Roosevelt, Franklin D.

The 32nd President of the U.S., known for his New Deal programs and expanding federal government powers.

Roosevelt, Theodore

The 26th President of the U.S., known for expanding the role of the President in foreign affairs and progressive policies.

Stewardship theory

The idea that the President can do anything necessary to meet the needs of the nation unless prohibited by law.

Twenty-second Amendment (1951)

This amendment limits the President to two terms in office.

War Powers Act (1973)

A law that limits the President's ability to send U.S. forces into combat without Congressional approval.

Wilson, Woodrow

The 28th President of the U.S., known for his leadership during World War I and the creation of the League of Nations.

Bully pulpit

The President’s ability to use their position to influence public opinion and push for legislative action.

State of the Union Address

An annual speech given by the President to Congress outlining the administration’s legislative agenda and national priorities.