1. Executive Branch – Policymaking in the Executive Branch
Unit III – Part 4

2. Considerations in setting policy agendas
Personal philosophy of the president
Popularity of the president
Desires of party’s constituent groups
Perceptions of emergencies or crisis situations
Differences in independence of the president in foreign and domestic matters

3. Ability to Influence Public Opinion
Appeal of personality
Record of success
Effective use of the media
Taking advantage of the honeymoon period
Creation of a legislative/executive coalition
Effectiveness in conveying a sense of crisis r urgent need

4. Ability to acquire support of Congress
Degree of party loyalty
Power to negotiate differences
Prospects/problems for certain districts or people
Threat of veto
Encouragement to modify legislation
Use of veto
Sign of powerlessness
Stalemate of government unless overridden

5. Reasons for increased power of the executive branch
Pressure of citizenry to sway members of Congress toward the president’s position (outsider strategy)
Reasons for increased power of the executive branch
Center of power in one person
Influence of individual, strong personalities
Easier for populace to turn to one person
Delegation by Congress of authority to the president
Use of power in times of national emergencies
Use of multiple roles of chief executive, chief legislator, commander in chief, chief diplomat, and party leader
Number of people on staff
Use of the media