Chapter Seven, Section Two

1. Chapter Seven, Section Two

2. “The President’s Job”

3. Role of the President • The president is the most powerful public official in the United States. • There main task is to “execute” or carry out laws that are passed by Congress.

4. Presidential Powers • “Veto”, or reject, bills passed by Congress. • Call Congress into special session. • Serve as “commander-in-chief” of the armed forces. • Receive foreign leaders or dignitaries. • Make treaties with other nations • Appoint heads of executive agencies • Pardon, or reduce the penalties against people convicted of federal crimes.

5. “State of the Union” • The “State of the Union” address is the president’s way of keeping the Congress informed about the nation and government. • This “informing” is required by the Constitution

6. Roles of the President • The president has several roles that they play as the leader of the United States.

7. “Chief Executive” • This is the most important job, to carry out laws that are passed by Congress. • The president’s “Cabinet” was created to help the president with this task.

8. “Chief Executive” • The president can issue an “executive order”, or a rule or command that has the force of law. • In 1948, President Truman issued this order to integrate the U.S. Armed Forces.

9. “Chief Executive” • The president has the power to appoint judges to the U.S. Supreme Court (with Congressional approval). • Not all appointees are approved…

10. “Chief Executive” • Finally, presidents can issue “pardons” (or declarations of forgiveness), “reprieves” (or orders to delay punishment until heard by a higher court), or grant “amnesty” (or a pardon toward a group)

11. “Chief Diplomat” • The president directs the foreign policy of the United States. • This is done by negotiating treaties with leaders of other nations.

12. “Commander-in-Chief” • The president is given complete control of the armed forces as “Commander-in-Chief” • However, only Congress can declare war (has only happened 5 times)

13. “Commander-in-Chief” • The president has the authority to send troops into action. • Since 1789, the presidents have sent troops into action over 150 times.

14. “Commander-in-Chief” • In 1973, the “War Powers Resolution” forced the president to notify Congress within 48 hours of sending troops into action. • The president can send troops into action for 60 days unless approved by Congress or war is declared.

15. “Legislative Leader” • Most bills that Congress considers each year come from the president or “Executive Branch”

16. “Legislative Leader” • Every president creates a “legislative program” of laws they want passed. • A special staff is created to work with Congress on these bills.

17. “Legislative Leader” • The president represents the entire nation, while members of Congress represent their own constituents. • This causes conflicts from time to time…

18. “Legislative Leader” • Time is a major issue as the president can only serve two terms, but members of Congress have no term limits.

19. “Head of State” • The president is the “living symbol” of the United States. • Their role is to carry out the ceremonial functions for the American citizens.

20. “Economic Leader” • Each president hopes to help the country’s economy prosper. • The most important way to do this is to have a sound plan for the federal budget.

21. “Party Leader” • The president is also considered the leader of their political party. • They often help with party member’s elections and raise money for the party as well.