Unit 6: Executive Branch Review

A set of vocabulary and definitions relating to the roles, powers, and structures of the Executive Branch in the United States.

Chief Executive

Head of the Executive Branch, in charge of enforcing laws.

Chief Policymaker

The President can recommend laws to Congress and set the agenda in the State of the Union address.

Chief of State

Ceremonial leader of the country, representing the U.S. at official functions.

Chief Diplomat

Oversees and formulates foreign policy.

Chief of Party

The leader of the political party.

Commander in Chief

The President is the leader of the U.S. military.

22nd Amendment

Legally limited a president to two terms, or a maximum of 10 years in office.

25th Amendment

Establishes the line of succession to the presidency if the office becomes vacant.

Executive Order

An official instruction from the President that does not require approval.

Vice President's Constitutional duties

1. Backup for the President. 2. Cast tie-breaking votes in the Senate.

Presidential Succession Act

The order of offices in line to the presidency: Vice President, Speaker of the House, President Pro Tempore.

Electoral College

A group of electors that choose the president based on state population and Senate representation.

Flaw of the Electoral College

The popular vote does not always determine the president.

Impeachment

An example of Congress checking the President for committing a crime.

Franklin D. Roosevelt

The only President to serve more than two terms.

Pocket Veto

The action of ignoring a bill, allowing it to die without a signature.

Balancing the Ticket

Choosing a Vice President candidate that improves the chances of winning.

Electoral Votes

Each state receives electors based on population plus two for senators.