Presidential Powers and Roles: Formal, Informal, and Checks

Formal Powers

Written in the Constitution (veto, commander in chief, treaties, appointments).

Informal Powers

Powers not listed but used by presidents (executive orders, bargaining, persuasion).

Roles of the President

Commander in Chief, Chief Executive, Chief Diplomat, Legislative Leader, Head of State, Party Leader.

Federalist 70

A single energetic executive leads to better decision-making and accountability.

Changes in Presidential Communication

Moved from speeches → radio → TV → internet/social media for direct messaging.

Bully Pulpit

The president using their public platform to shape public opinion and pressure Congress.

Checks on the President

Congress controls funding, overrides vetoes, impeaches; Courts review actions.

Confirmation Process

Senate holds hearings and votes on presidential appointments.

Veto Power

President rejects a bill; Congress can override with 2/3 vote.

Executive Orders

Instructions to the executive branch that act like law.

Executive Agreements

President's foreign agreement that doesn't need Senate approval.

Signing Statements

President says how they plan to interpret or enforce a law.

Executive Privilege

President can keep certain communications secret.

War Powers Resolution

President must notify Congress within 48 hours and remove troops after 60 days unless approved.

State of the Union

Yearly speech to Congress outlining the president's goals.

Cabinet

Heads of executive departments who advise the president.

Executive Office of the President (EOP)

The president's closest policy and management advisors.

Commander in Chief Power

Leads the military but cannot declare war.

Treaty Power

President negotiates treaties; Senate approves with 2/3 vote.

Appointment Power

President chooses judges, ambassadors, and top officials; Senate confirms.