Presidency In Action Chapter 14

Oath of Office “I do solemnly swear that I will faithfully execute the Office of President of the United States, and will to the best of my Ability preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States”

Executive Orders Directive, rule, or regulation that has the effect of law. Presidents power to make law, circumventing Congress.

Appointment Power Article II, Sec 2, Clause 2 – President appoints key gov’t positions with the consent of Congress. Recess Appointments – President can appoint jobs during Congressional recess (lasts only a year)

Removal Power The President has the power to remove appointed officials from office (exception federal judges) Hotly debated overtime Andrew Johnson

Diplomatic and Military Powers

Treaties, Executive Agreements & Power of recognition Treaty – formal agreement between two or more sovereign states. President / Sec. of State generally negotiate these deals. Senate must approve by 2/3 vote. Executive Agreement – deal struck between two heads of state…no Senate approval needed. Power of Recognition – President recognizes the legitimacy of a nation by accepting their diplomats.

Commander in Chief President is the supreme commander of the US Military. Only Congress can officially declare war. Presidents since John Addams have been sending troops abroad without Congressional consent. War Powers Resolution

Legislative and Judicial Powers

Legislative Powers President can not recommend a bill on the floor of either House. The President uses message power to recommend legislation. State of the Union

Legislative Powers Veto Power – the power vested in the President to reject proposed legislation. It takes a 2/3 vote to overturn a veto. Line-Item Veto – the power to reject certain parts of a bill. The President does not have this power!!!!

Judicial Powers Reprieve – postponement of the execution of a sentence. Pardon – legal forgiveness of a crime. Clemency – mercy, may only be used in cases involving federal offenses. Amnesty – power to pardon an entire group of people