Qualifications for the Presidency

Constitutional Qualifications Qualification Set by the Constitution Must be a natural born citizen of the United States Must be at least 35 years of age Must have been a resident of the United States for 14 years (not consecutive)

Presidential Terms Elected for a 4-year term of office Can be re-elected No term limits until FDR 22ND Amendment General Rule = President may serve a maximum of two full terms (8 years) in office May serve a maximum of 10 years if a Vice President succeeds to the Presidency and serves the remainder of that presidents term

Repeal of the 22nd Amendment? Truman, Eisenhower, and Reagan have all called for the repeal of the 22nd Amendment Arguments For Undemocratic – places limits on the right of the people to decide Undercuts authority of President toward end of second term Arguments Against Reasonable safeguard against tyranny

Pay and Benefits Congress determines the presidents salary Cannot be increased or decreased during a presidential term!!! Why? Approximately $400,000 per year President receives a $50,000 expense account May be spent however the President chooses Other Perks White House, a suite of offices and staff, automobiles, Air Force One, helicopters, Camp David, healthcare, travel and entertainment funds, etc.