Executive Branch (The President)

protector of the peace

When the president uses emergency services or the national guard to deal with domestic violence or natural disasters.

commander in chief

When the president uses the military outside the U.S.

voice of the people

When the president speaks to Americans, summing up our hopes and fears, and boosting morale.

economic planner

When the president concerns himself with employment, the stock market, inflation, etc.

head of state

When the president visits schools or attends weddings and funerals. Ceremonial stuff!

chief legislator

When the president works with Congress to pass laws, and signs or vetoes bills that cross his desk.

chief executive

When the president manages the country and hires and fires individuals to work in the government.

chief diplomat

When the president appoints ambassadors, a Secretary of State, and helps form treaties or executive agreements with other countries.

party leader

When the president campaigns on behalf of members of their own party, and helps raise money for the party.

leader of the western world

When the president speaks in the U.N. the world listens. The president sets a tone globally and provides aid for those in need in other parts of the world.

treaty

A formal agreement between our country and another. Must be ratified by the Senate.

executive agreement

An agreement between our president and another country's leader. Does not need Senate approval.

state of the union address

The speech the president gives to Congress nearly every January.

executive privalege

When the president refuses to give information or evidence.

The Cabinet

14 departments, headed by Secretaries the president appoints.

War Powers Act

Limits the president to 60 days of using the military without Congressional approval.

line item veto

When the president approves a bill while rejecting certain parts.

the spoils system

The old method of getting jobs in the Executive Branch, based on patronage.

civil service

The new method of getting jobs in the executive branch. A clear structure and merit-based.

bureaucracy

All the agencies, offices and departments of the Executive branch.

veto

The President rejects a bill passed by Congress.