Executive-_Executive_Branch_Powers_Notes.pptx

Executive Branch Powers

  • The executive branch is primarily responsible for enforcing the laws of the nation.

Official Job of President

  • The Constitution grants the president the executive power.

  • To execute or carry out the laws effectively.

Executive Power

  • The president is the head of the Cabinet and oversees 15 executive departments.

Executive Office of the President

  • The president manages the Executive Office, including important agencies:

    • National Security Council

    • Office of Management and Budget

    • Office of National Drug Control Policy

Appointment Powers

  • The president has the authority to nominate federal judges, ambassadors, and Cabinet heads.

  • All nominations require Senate approval to ensure a system of checks and balances.

Constitutional Requirements

  • The wording from the Constitution mandates that the president must seek the "advice and consent" of the Senate.

Executive Orders

  • Executive orders are directives from the president that have the force of law but do not require congressional approval.

  • Although not explicitly stated in the Constitution, these orders help control executive branches and operations.

Examples of Executive Orders (2017)

  • The White House Initiative to Promote Excellence and Innovation at Historically Black Colleges and Universities

  • Restoring the Rule of Law, Federalism, and Economic Growth

  • Enforcing the Regulatory Reform Agenda

  • Providing an Order of Succession Within the Department of Justice

Historical Executive Orders

  • Examples include the internment of Japanese-Americans during WWII and President Truman's desegregation of the armed forces.

Legislative Powers

  • The president can recommend laws, usually represented in the State of the Union address in January.

Presidential Options When a Law is Presented

  • Approve:

    • Sign it into law.

    • Do not sign within 10 days and it becomes law.

  • Disapprove:

    • Veto (can be overridden by Congress with a 2/3 vote).

    • Pocket Veto (not signed within 10 days of Congress's adjournment).

Diplomatic Powers

  • The president acts as the head of state and represents the United States in foreign affairs.

  • The president can negotiate treaties that require 2/3 approval from the Senate.

  • The president can also create executive agreements with other nations, which typically do not require Senate approval.

Military Powers

  • The president is the commander-in-chief of the armed forces.

  • Can commit troops to short-term military action, while Congress holds the power to declare war.

War Powers Resolution (1973)

  • A law that requires the president to consult with Congress before military action.

  • If Congress does not approve, the president must withdraw troops within 60 days.

History of Military Powers

  • The War Powers Resolution was enacted due to concerns about military engagements like the Vietnam War.

Judicial Powers

  • The president has the authority to grant pardons and reprieves.

  • Pardons: Forgiveness for crimes and release from punishment.

  • Cannot issue pardons for impeachments.

Chief Citizen Role

  • The president embodies the citizens of the nation and carries out ceremonial duties.

Electoral Mandate

  • Concept that the electorate has voiced approval of the president's initiatives and policies.

Changes in the Presidency

  • Historically, Congress held more power until the 1930s.

  • Recent decades have seen an increase in presidential power, especially in foreign affairs.