AP Gov- Executive Branch

Presidential Requirements

Must be a natural-born U.S. citizen

At least 35 years old

U.S. resident for 14+ years

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Presidential Terms & Benefits

Term Limit: 2 terms (22nd Amendment)

Max Time in Office: 10 years

Salary: $400,000/year + $50,000 expense allowance

Benefits: White House, Air Force One, lifelong security detail

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Formal Presidential Powers (Constitutional)

1. Veto Legislation — Reject bills from Congress

2. Sign Treaties — Make agreements with foreign nations (Senate approval)

3. Appoint Officials — Cabinet, judges, ambassadors (Senate approval)

4. Commander-in-Chief — Directs the military

5. Deliver State of the Union — Sets legislative agenda

6. Grant Pardons/Amnesty — Forgive federal crimes

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Informal Presidential Powers

1. Executive Orders — Direct federal agencies without Congress

2. Executive Agreements — Informal treaties with other nations

3. Bully Pulpit — Influence public opinion through speeches/media

4. Signing Statements — Explain how the president interprets a law

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6 Key Presidential Roles

1. Chief of State — Symbolic leader, represents nation at ceremonies

2. Chief Executive — Enforces laws, oversees federal bureaucracy

3. Chief Diplomat — Manages foreign policy, meets with leaders

4. Chief of Party — Leads political party, supports candidates

5. Commander-in-Chief — Controls military forces, makes defense decisions

6. Chief Legislator — Shapes policy, proposes bills, works with Congress

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Vice President's Role

Chosen by: Presidential candidate

Main Duties:

President of the Senate (casts tie-breaking votes)

Succeeds president if unable to serve

Often chosen to “balance the ticket” in elections

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Presidential Succession (25th Amendment)

1. Vice President

2. Speaker of the House

3. President pro tempore of the Senate

4. Secretary of State

5. Other Cabinet members (in order of department creation)

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Limitations on Presidential Power

Congressional Checks: Veto override, appointment approvals

Court Limits: Executive