Unit 6: The Executive Branch 2. The Roles of the President Unit 6: The Executive Branch

Roles of the President The president has seven roles to fill while in office. Some are stipulated by the US Constitution, others have developed over time.

Head of State The president handles ceremonial roles for the US., playing the role of host to visiting heads of government. This means the president is the “face of the nation,” appearing as the collective image of the US.

Chief Executive As chief executive, the president sees that the laws are carried out, and is in charge of the federal bureaucracy. This is the primary role outlined by the writers of the Constitution. This role gives the president a lot of influence and powers.

Chief Executive Influence Executive Orders: rules that have the force of law and are attached to laws, but do not need the consent of Congress. Appointments & Removal from office. Impoundment: impounds money set aside for another purpose (prevents “pork”). Pardons and reprieves. Amnesty: pardon for an offense against the government.

Chief Legislator Congress, as well as the public, expects the president to propose legislation…even if Congress decides not to listen to bills made by the president.

Chief Legislator Legislative Tools Political favors. Veto (used for real or as a threat). Pocket veto.

Economic Planner The president will provide an economic report as well as propose a federal budget. However, because Congress control the Treasury, they can create their own budget after hearing the president’s proposal.

Party Leader Once elected, the president becomes the head of his political party, supporting the party as a whole and individual members.

Chief Diplomat The president acts as the primary foreign policy maker for the country. The president has more access to relevant information and people to aid in this role: the CIA, Dept. of Defense, various ambassadors, Dept. of State, NSC. This is also the role that will allow the president to respond quickly to situations when Congress cannot.

Chief Diplomat Diplomatic Tools Treaties Executive agreements: an agreement between the president and another head of state that has the same weight as a treaty but doesn’t require approval. Recognition

Commander-in-Chief The president is the leader of the military, and has access to use of the military for both domestic and foreign issues. As Commander-in-Chief, the president can agree to declare war with Congress and is responsible for most operational and strategic decisions.