The Presidency and Its Powers

These flashcards cover key concepts relating to the formal and informal powers of the presidency, how they impact the executive's relationship with Congress and the public, and historical amendments relevant to presidential power.

Veto

The power of one branch of government to refuse approval of measures proposed by another.

Pocket-Veto

Occurs when the president does not sign a bill into law within 10 days of arriving on his desk AND if Congress has officially adjourned.

Executive Orders

Directives issued by the president to one or more agencies or organizations within the executive branch.

Treaties

A formal agreement between two countries on a topic that is subject to Senate approval.

Executive Agreements

Agreements made by the President and another foreign head of state that do not require a formal treaty and are not subject to Senate approval.

Commander-in-Chief

Role of the president to serve as head of the armed forces.

Bargaining & Persuasion

The ability of the president to use the power of the office to get members of Congress to agree with him or her on legislative priorities.

Signing Statements

An addition issued by the President that accompanies the signing of a law to clarify how it should be interpreted.

22nd Amendment

Limits the president to two terms or 10 years in office, passed due to concerns about the potential for abuse of the presidency.

Federalist No. 70

An argument for a strong executive, promoting accountability and decisiveness by placing power in a single strong leader.

Accountability

The obligation of elected officials to be answerable to the public and responsible for their actions.

National Constituency

The entire nation that the president is accountable to, in contrast to Congress members representing their specific states or districts.

Bully Pulpit

The president's platform to communicate policy initiatives and influence public opinion through mass media.