The Growth of Presidential Power

These flashcards cover key concepts regarding the growth of presidential power as described in the lecture notes.

Why is Article II of the Constitution controversial?

It establishes the presidency and the executive powers, leading to debates about the scope and limits of presidential authority.

How has presidential power grown over time?

Presidential power has increased due to the complexity of American life, Congressional laws expanding federal authority, and effective use of mass media.

What are the two views of presidential power?

1. The Presidential View (broad interpretation) exemplified by Teddy Roosevelt, and 2. The Limited View (strict interpretation) exemplified by William Howard Taft.

What is the ordinance power?

The President's power to issue executive orders, which derives from the Constitution and acts of Congress.

What is the President's appointment power?

The authority to nominate top-ranking officers of the Federal Government, including ambassadors, Cabinet members, and federal judges, with Senate consent.

What historical debate surrounds the removal power?

The debate over whether the President can remove appointed officials without Senate consent, which has generally concluded that the President can, except for federal judges.

What is a treaty?

A formal agreement between two or more sovereign states that requires approval by two-thirds of the Senate.

What is an executive agreement?

A pact between the President and the head of a foreign state which does not require Senate consent.

What is the power of recognition?

The President's authority to acknowledge the legal existence of another sovereign state and to express displeasure with it.

How does the War Powers Resolution of 1973 affect the President's military powers?

It limits the President's ability to engage in armed conflicts without Congressional approval.

What is the veto power?

The President's ability to reject legislation passed by Congress, which can only be overridden by a two-thirds vote of both houses.

What are the President's clemency powers?

The powers to grant reprieves and pardons for federal offenses, except in cases of impeachment.

A presidential veto of legislation can only be overturned by a

two-thirds vote in both houses of Congress

Reprieves and pardons are both examples of the President’s

clemency power

a Treaty is

a formal agreement between two or more sovereign states.

When acting as head of the nation’s armed forces, the President is filling the role of

commander in chief.