Highlights: The Executive Branch SS.7.C.3.8/SS.7.3.9 The Structure, Functions, and Processes of the Legislative, Executive, and Judicial Branches of Government Terri Susan Fine, Ph.D. Content Specialist, Florida Joint Center for Citizenship

Benchmarks SS.7.C.3.8 (Also assesses SS.7.3.9) Analyze the structure, functions, and processes of the legislative, executive, and judicial branches. SS.7.3.9 Illustrate the lawmaking processes at the local, state, and federal levels

The White House

The Powers of the Executive Branch Explanation of Power Example Executive Order a “law” for the executive branch; an order that comes from a chief executive (president or governor) as to how the executive branch will function. Executive orders are not reviewed by Congress. President Franklin Roosevelt signed Executive Order 9066 “Executive Order Authorizing the Secretary of War to Prescribe Military Areas” on February 19, 1942. The enforcement of this executive order led to the forced internment (see Benchmark 3.6) of U.S. citizens of Japanese descent during World War II. Veto a decision by an executive authority such as a president or governor to reject a proposed law or statute During the Vietnam War (see Benchmark 4.3), President Richard Nixon vetoed the War Powers Resolution (1973) that placed limits on the president’s Commander-in-Chief role (see Benchmark 3.3). Congress overrode the president’s veto.

The Powers of the Executive Branch Explanation of Power Example Appointments The Chief Executive nominates persons to hold specific public offices. President George W. Bush nominated John G. Roberts for Chief Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court on September 5, 2005. President Barack Obama nominated John Kerry for Secretary of State on December 21, 2012. Pardon The Chief Executive formally excuses public office holders from being prosecuted for crimes or wrongdoing committed while in office. President Gerald Ford pardoned President Richard Nixon on September 8, 1974 for any crimes he may have committed while in office (President Nixon resigned the presidency on August 9, 1974).