Gov executive branch

Amnesty

A presidential pardon granted to a group of people for an offense.

Bully pulpit

A prominent public position used to advocate an agenda and sway the public.

Divided Government

Control of the presidency and at least one chamber of Congress by different parties.

Cabinet

Advisory body consisting of the heads of the executive departments.

Executive Privilege

The president's right to withhold information from Congress or the courts.

25th Amendment

Establishes procedures for presidential succession and disability.

Impeach

The House accuses a public official of misconduct; the Senate tries them.

22nd Amendment

Limits a president to serving two terms.

Impound

A president's refusal to spend funds appropriated by Congress.

Line-item veto

Power to veto specific provisions of a bill without rejecting the whole thing.

Pocket veto

A bill fails because the president leaves it unsigned while Congress adjourns.

Presidential Succession

The established order of who takes over if the presidency becomes vacant.

Signing statement

A presidential document explaining how a newly signed law will be enforced.

Prorogue

To discontinue a legislative session without dissolving the assembly.

White House Chief of Staff

Oversees White House staff operations and manages access to the president.

Executive agreement

An international agreement made by the president without Senate approval.

Executive order

A presidential directive to executive branch agencies that carries the force of law.

Electoral College

The body of electors that formally elects the US president and vice president.

State of the Union

Annual presidential address reporting to Congress on the nation's status.

Pardon

A presidential release from the legal consequences of a crime.

Balance the ticket

Choosing a running mate to broaden a presidential ticket's appeal.

War Powers Act (Resolution)

Requires the president to notify Congress within 48 hours of deploying military forces.