The Executive Branch U.S Government By: Martina Espinoza
Duties of the President The President is both the head of state and head of government of the United States of America, and Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces. The President has the power either to sign legislation into law or to veto bills enacted by Congress, although Congress may override a veto with a two-thirds vote of both houses. The President can issue executive orders, which direct executive officers or clarify and further existing laws. The President also has unlimited power to extend pardons and clemencies for federal crimes, except in cases of impeachment.
Qualifications and characteristics of the President the President is limited to two four-year terms, because 22nd Amendment to the Constitution, ratified in the President and the First Family live in the White House in Washington, D.C., also the location of the President's Oval Office and the offices of the his senior staff. The most recent salary increase, to $400,000/year from $200,000/year, took effect when George W. Bush became President. The President also receives a $50,000 non-taxable expense account.
Duties of the Vice President: The primary responsibility of the Vice President of the United States is to be ready at a moment's notice to assume the Presidency if the President is unable to perform his duties. The Vice President also serves as the President of the United States Senate, where he or she casts the deciding vote in the case of a tie. The salary of the vice president is currently $230,700
President’s Cabinet(1) The Department of Agriculture (USDA) runs food assistance and nutrition programs. The USDA's inspection and grading programs make sure food is safe to eat. The Department of Commerce promotes international trade, economic growth, and technological advancement. It also works to keep the United States competitive in international markets and to prevent unfair foreign trade practices. The Department of Defense (DOD) oversees everything related to the nation's military security. The department directs the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, and Air Force, as well as the Joint Chiefs of Staff and several specialized combat commands. The Department of Education took over many of the education programs previously managed by the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare and six other agencies. The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) administers Social Security, and funds Medicare.
President’s Cabinet(2) The Department of Homeland Security works to protect the country against terrorism. The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) promotes community development, administers fair-housing laws, and provides affordable housing and rent subsidies. The Department of the Interior protects the natural environment and develops the country's natural resources. The department of Justice supervises U.S. district attorneys and marshals, supervises federal prisons and other penal institutions, and advises the President on petitions for paroles and pardons. The Department of Labor protects the rights of workers, helps improve working conditions, and promotes good relations between labor and management.
President’s Cabinet(3) The Department of State advises the President on foreign-policy issues, works to carry out the country's foreign policy, maintains relations between foreign countries and the United States, negotiates treaties and agreements with foreign nations, speaks for the United States in the United Nations and other major international organizations, and supervises embassies, missions, and consulates overseas. The Department of Transportation (DOT) sets the nation's transportation policy. The Department of the Treasury reports to Congress and the President on the financial state of the government and the economy, regulates the interstate and foreign sale of alcohol and firearms. The Department of Veterans Affairs provides benefits and services to veterans and their dependents.