The Power of the President Chapter 14

Executive Powers Executing the Law - Must execute all laws regardless of his/her own personal opinion The Ordinance Power - Has the power to issue executive orders, which is a directive, rule or regulation that has the effect of a law

Executive Powers con’t The Appointment Power ambassadors, diplomats Cabinet members and top aides Heads of agencies (EPA, NASA) Federal judges, US Marshals, attorneys Officers in the armed forces ***With Senate consent The Removal Power Can remove anyone he/she appoints other than federal judges Most of the time it is called a “resignation.”

Diplomatic and Military Powers Make Treaties A formal agreement between 2 or more sovereign states Requires a 2/3 vote from the Senate Is as strong a a law Executive Agreements A pact between the President and the head of a state Does not require Senate approval Usually comes along with a previous law or treaty already approved by the Senate

Diplomatic and Military Powers con’t Power of Recognition Acknowledging the existence of a country and its government Done by exchanging a diplomatic representative Does not mean approval Commander In Chief Has the final authority over and responsibility for all military matters Undeclared war? – not “war,” but still military action War Powers Resolution: Has 48 hours to report to Congress 60 day limit without Congressional approval Congress can end commitment at any time.

Legislative and Judicial Powers Legislative Powers Recommends legislation through the State of the Union Can veto bills (line-item veto is not allowed) Can adjourn Congress if they cannot agree on a date (has never happened) Judicial Powers Reprieve – postponement of the execution of a sentence Pardon – legal forgiveness of a crime Commutation – reduce the length of a sentence Amnesty – a pardon given to a group of law violators *** Only in federal cases and not in cases of impeachment