American Government and Organization PS1301 Monday, 13 October

Presidency Leadership gravitates to presidents during crisis, but then dissipates quickly as the crisis recedes. Source of Power - Delegation of power from Congress and successful presidential assertions of authority (e.g. War Powers Act 1973) President as commander in chief and head diplomat

The President and the Constitution The president’s constitutional duties and authority as commander in chief, diplomat, executive, and legislator are found in Article II of the Constitution.

Emergence of the Modern Presidency Prior to 20th century, president exercised little power Congress was main institution – leadership in policymaking Growth of federal government and complexity of policy led to increased role for president Also, involvement in world wars Staff, resources grew as asserted more power (Executive Office of the President)

Sources of Presidential Power Constitutional powers-formal powers Delegated powers (vs. implied powers) Presidential popularity

Presidential Popularity

Bush’s Job Approval

Handling of the Economy

Handling of Foreign Affairs

Handling Situation with Iraq

How popularity can influence Congress Opposition party can substantially increase support (1/3rd of total support) Presidents may behave differently (less willing to compromise?) Who gets credit

Reasons for Influence on Own Party Members Policy agreement Successful president helps party Small favors Fundraisers, photo op

Reasons for Less Influence on Own Party Members No sanctions Little personal contact between president and rank and file members Different constituencies National vs. district/state

The President As Legislator: The Veto Perhaps the president’s most formidable tool in dealing with Congress is the veto. Constitution defines the veto precisely. Used relatively rarely – most used by Gerald Ford. In the past 50 years, the average is fewer than 10 vetoes a year. The veto allows the president to block congressional action, but does not allow the president to substitute his own policy preferences.