Politics in Action: Presidential Power

A set of vocabulary flashcards to help review key terms related to the presidency and presidential powers.

Presidency

The office and function of the President of the United States, including the roles and expectations associated with this position.

Impeachment

The political equivalent of an indictment in criminal law, allowing the House of Representatives to charge a president with misconduct.

Executive Order

Regulations issued by the executive branch that carry the force of law, used by presidents to control the bureaucracy.

War Powers Resolution

A law passed in 1973 that requires presidents to consult with Congress before using military force and mandating withdrawal after 60 days unless Congress declares war.

National Security Council (NSC)

The committee that links the president with key foreign and military policy advisers, including the vice president and secretaries of state and defense.

Cabinet

A group of presidential advisers that includes the heads of the executive departments, but is not formally mentioned in the Constitution.

Going Public

A strategy used by presidents to directly appeal to the public for support on policy initiatives, leveraging media appearances.

Commander in Chief

The role of the president as the head of the armed forces, with authority over military decisions and operations.

Presidential Coattails

The phenomenon where voters cast their ballots for congressional candidates of the president's party, often influenced by their support for the president.

Public Approval

The extent to which the public supports the president, often measured through opinion polls and crucial for presidential influence.