The Presidency: Key Concepts

This set of flashcards covers significant vocabulary and concepts related to the presidency, based on the lecture material.

Executive Power

The power to enforce laws; involves roles beyond just criminal law enforcement.

Natural Born Citizen

A person who is a U.S. citizen from birth, without the need for naturalization.

Commander in Chief

The President's role as the highest officer in the military chain of command.

Expressed Powers

Powers directly stated in the Constitution, primarily found in Article II.

Implied Powers

Powers not explicitly listed in the Constitution but necessary to execute expressed powers.

Delegated Powers

Powers granted to the president by Congress through federal law.

Executive Orders

Directives issued by the President to manage the operations of the executive branch.

War Powers Resolution (1973)

A law requiring the President to seek congressional authorization for military actions.

Going Public

When the President uses media or events to gain public support for their agenda.

Bully Pulpit

The platform that the President has to communicate and influence public opinion.

Pardon Power

The President's authority to grant formal forgiveness for a federal crime.

Lame Duck

A term for a President after their reelection, where their influence over Congress is diminished.

Unified Government

A situation where the President's party controls both houses of Congress.

Divided Government

A situation where the President's party does not control one or both houses of Congress.

State of the Union

A constitutional requirement for the President to report on the country's status to Congress.

Treaty

Formal agreements negotiated by the President, requiring Senate approval by two-thirds.

Executive Agreement

An agreement made by the President that does not require Senate approval.

Vice Presidency

The office that has limited power but serves as a backup to the President.

Presidential Succession Act of 1947

Law that outlines the order of succession if the presidency and vice presidency are vacant.