executive

Lame Duck President

Refers to a president who is in office during the period between the election and the inauguration of a successor, especially if the outgoing president is not eligible for re-election.

22nd Amendment

The 22nd Amendment to the United States Constitution, ratified in 1951, limits presidents to two terms in office.

Appointment Power of President

The authority of the President of the United States to appoint individuals to various positions in the federal government, including federal judges, ambassadors, and members of the Cabinet, with the approval of the Senate for certain positions.

Article II

Article II of the United States Constitution outlines the powers and duties of the executive branch, including the presidency.

Bully Pulpit

Term coined by President Theodore Roosevelt, referring to the president's ability to use their position and prestige to influence and shape public opinion.

Cabinet

A group of high-ranking officials, usually consisting of the heads of various executive departments, appointed by the President to advise on policy matters.

Constitutional Powers

The powers explicitly granted to the President by the United States Constitution, such as the power to veto legislation, command the armed forces, and conduct foreign affairs.

Executive Agreement

An agreement between the President and the head of a foreign government, which does not require Senate approval like a treaty.

Executive Orders

Directives issued by the President of the United States that manage operations of the federal government. They have the force of law but are subject to judicial review.

Executive Privilege

The principle that the President has the right to keep certain communications confidential, especially those involving national security.

Impeachment Process

The constitutional process for removing a President or other federal officials from office. It involves charges of "high crimes and misdemeanors" by the House of Representatives, followed by a trial in the Senate.

Inherent Powers

Powers claimed by the President that are not explicitly mentioned in the Constitution but are inferred as necessary to carry out the duties of the office.

Joint Chiefs of Staff

A group of high-ranking military officials who advise the President on military matters. It includes the heads of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and the Chief of Staff of the Joint Staff.

Pocket Veto

A veto that occurs when the President takes no action on a bill for ten days (excluding Sundays) while Congress is adjourned, effectively preventing it from becoming law without a formal veto.

Senate Confirmation

The process by which the Senate approves certain appointments made by the President, such as federal judges and members of the Cabinet.

Senatorial Courtesy

A tradition in the Senate where the President consults with the senators of a nominee's home state before making certain appointments.

State of the Union Address

An annual speech given by the President to Congress, outlining the administration's legislative agenda and reporting on the condition of the country.

Term and Requirements of the President

The President serves a four-year term and can be re-elected for a maximum of two terms. To be eligible, a person must be a natural-born citizen, at least 35 years old, and have been a resident of the United States for at least 14 years.

Veto

The President's constitutional power to reject a bill passed by Congress, preventing it from becoming law unless overridden by a two-thirds majority in both houses of Congress.

White House Staff

The individuals who work directly for and report to the President, assisting in various capacities to carry out the duties of the office.