chapter seven, section two
DESCRIPTION
Chapter Seven, Section Two. “The President’s Job”. 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. Presidential Powers. - PowerPoint PPT PresentationTRANSCRIPT
Chapter Seven, Section TwoChapter Seven, Section Two
““The President’s Job”The President’s Job”
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.
Presidential Powers
1. “Veto”, or reject, bills passed by Congress.2. Call Congress into special session.3. Serve as “commander-in-chief” of the armed
forces.4. Receive foreign leaders or dignitaries.5. Make treaties with other nations6. Appoint heads of executive agencies7. Pardon, or reduce the penalties against people
convicted of federal crimes.
“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
Roles of the President
The president has several roles that they play as the leader of the United States.
“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.
“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.
“Chief Executive”
The president has the power to appoint judges to the U.S. Supreme Court (with Congressional approval).
Not all appointees are approved…
“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)
“Chief Diplomat”
The president directs the foreign policy of the United States.
This is done by negotiating treaties with leaders of other nations.
“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)
“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.
“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.
“Legislative Leader”
Most bills that Congress considers each year come from the president or “Executive Branch”
“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.
“Legislative Leader”
The president represents the entire nation, while members of Congress represent their own constituents.
This causes conflicts from time to time…
“Legislative Leader”
Time is a major issue as the president can only serve two terms, but members of Congress have no term limits.
“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.
“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.
“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.