Development of the Unwritten Constitution

America’s First President George Washington served two terms as president (1789-1797) Made decisions and policies that influenced the nature of U.S. government Under his presidency, an unwritten constitution developed in response to changing times and circumstances.

Executive Interpretation Action and Custom

What is “unwritten constitution?” Definition: the collection of procedures adopted by our government that are solely acted upon out of tradition and custom. Procedures are not directed by the U.S. Constitution!

The Presidential Cabinet Definition: an informal meeting of the president’s advisors Advisors give advice to the president when developing foreign and domestic policy. Early presidents consulted with congressional leaders, but more often than not, cabinet members are the heads of executive departments.

Who is in a President’s Cabinet? Washington appointed: Secretary of the Treasury – manage finances Secretary of the State – foreign affairs Secretary of War – military matters Attorney General – chief lawyer of the federal government

Congressional Interpretation Action and Custom

Lobbying Definition: Actions by people representing special interest groups for the purpose of influencing legislation Protected by the First Amendment’s right to petition, but also regulated by federal law

Loose vs. Strict Interpretation Strict: favors a narrow interpretation of the constitution Government can only do the things that the document says it can do Loose: favors a “free reading of the constitution, giving the government room to act”

Judicial Interpretation Action and Custom

Judicial Review Definition: the power for the judicial branch to declare laws “unconstitutional” “Unconstitutional:” laws that go against the fundamentals of the constitution