Article II: The Executive Branch

It is the job of the executive branch to carry out, or execute, the laws. They, the President and Vice President, enforce or make sure people are obeying the laws made by the legislative branch.

The President is the chief executive and he (or one day she) is elected for a four-year term His second-in-command is called the Vice President The President is aided by a group of 15 advisors known as the Cabinet.

Getting elected The President and Vice President are chosen by the electoral college. The electoral college is made up of average citizens who represent their state House + Senate = Electoral votes To be declared President you must receive a majority of votes, 271, in order to win the election.

Getting elected If a candidate fails to get a clear majority of votes in the electoral college, the presidency is then decided in Congress. The House, with each state having only one vote, elects the President. Since the common people were poorly educated and in the early years of our nation, the electoral college was originally established to keep the common people from making a mistake and electing a disastrous leader.

The Seven Hats of the President Chief of State Serves as a living-symbol of America and as such performs many ceremonial duties. Represents America when he travels to other countries to meet with foreign leaders. Greets and entertains visiting foreign officials and dignitaries. Attends festivities of historic or nationals importance..

The Seven Hats of the President Chief of State Tosses out the first ball of the baseball season Presents medal and other awards for national service or heroic deeds. Promotes the tradition and accomplishments of his fellow Americans Sets an example of good conduct and ethics.

The Seven Hats of the President Chief Executive Responsible for enforcing laws passed by Congress and rulings handed down by the Supreme Court. Manages the government’s executive branch Appoints Cabinet members, Supreme Court justices and other Federal officials.

The Seven Hats of the President Chief Executive Appoints people to fill many lower-level executive branch jobs. Grants pardons or reprieves Develops Federal policies. Makes sure all of his cabinet, staff and other employees are doing their jobs correctly.

The Seven Hats of the President Chief Diplomat Makes treaties with other nations Decides foreign policy Meets with foreign leaders Proposes military or financial aid to other countries.

The Seven Hats of the President Commander in Chief Leader of the US armed forces and is responsible for making all decisions regarding the Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines. Can send US troops into action overseas. Expected to keep the nation well- defended at all times.

The Seven Hats of the President Legislative Leader May propose (suggest) legislation. May veto a bill. May appear before Congress to speak about matters of national importance.

The Seven Hats of the President Economic Chief Helps keep the economy running smoothly. Plans the Federal budget, suggests how much money to spend and on what, proposes tax cuts or hikes. Develops policies to deal with such problems as unemployment, inflation and trade between the US and other countries.

The Seven Hats of the President Party Chief Head of their political party. Decides how the party will stand on important issues. Campaigns for party members running for elective office. Appears at fund raising and other party functions.