The President (Day 2) AP Government - Spring 2013

Presidential Quotes “No one who has not had the responsibility can really understand what it is like to be president… There is no end to the chain of responsibility that binds him, and he is never allowed to forget that he is president.” Harry S. Truman (33rd President)

More quotes... “Mark him too weak: the legislature will usurp (take for itself) his power. Make him too strong: he will usurp the legislature.” Gouveneur Morris on the creation of the Executive Branch

Even more quotes... My belief was that it was not only (the president’s) right but his duty to do anything that the needs of the Nation demanded unless such action was forbidden by the Constitution or by the laws…. I did not usurp power (seize power without legal authority), but I did greatly broaden the use of executive power. In other works, I acted for the public welfare, I acted for the common well-being of all our people, whenever and in whatever manner was necessary, unless prevented by direct constitutional or legislative prohibition.” Theodore Roosevelt (26th President of the USA)

Last Quote... “The presidency is not merely an administrative office. It is also a place of moral leadership.” Franklin D. Roosevelt (32nd President)

The Cabinet An advisory group (14) chosen by the President to accomplish the goals of the executive branch. Not in the Constitution. Many chosen due to political reasons. Some positions: State Treasury Defense Commerce Labor Justice Education Transportation

Secretary of State Leads one of the most powerful Cabinet positions. Is responsible for the security of the nation. Tends to conflict with National Security Advisor.

Conflicting Roles of the Cabinet What are some of the problems that can develop between the the President & the Cabinet members? “Gone Native”: the Cabinet member sides with his department’s priorities rather than the Presidents.

Cabinet Powers Abraham Lincoln Quotes: “I have gotten you together to hear what I have written down. I do not wish your advice about the matter, for that I have determined myself.” “Seven nays, one aye – the ayes have it.”

Executive Office of the White House White House Office Most important staff members are in the west wing. Key player is the Chief of Staff. Another key player is the press secretary

Obama’s Key Officers Denis McDonough Jay Carney Chief of Staff Press Secretary