1. 5-5: Legislative Powers of the President

2. Big Idea: Constitutionalism
Enduring Understanding:
The presidency has been expanded beyond its expressed constitutional powers.
Learning Objective:
Explain how the president can implement a policy agenda.

3. Constitutional Powers
Original intent—limit executive authority
President cannot make legislation
Sole constitutional legislative powers of the president
Required to the a State of the Union Address
Can bring issues to Congress “from time to time”
Can veto congressional legislation

4. Veto Power Options Sign bill into law Veto power Threat of a veto
Signing statements
Veto power
Fewer than 10% become overridden
Often passed in another form
Threat of a veto
Causes Congress to modify bill
Pocket veto
Line-item veto still unconstitutional

5. Informal Powers Chief legislator Signing statements Executive orders
Set policy agenda
Initiates much legislation
Persuade public/congressional opinion
Signing statements
Informs public how the president will enforce a law
Challenge to separation of powers
Executive orders
Based on constitutional authority
Carries force of law
Working with Congress
Bipartisan cooperation preferred
Assigning legislative liaisons to lobby Congress
Working with majority/minority leaders
Emphasizing key issues in media
Capitalizing on high approval ratings
Bargaining

6. Divided Government Overview Consequences Effect on president
Two-party rule
Frequent result of recent elections
Consequences
Heightened partisanship
Lack of compromise
“Crisis politics”
Effect on president
Challenges to federal appointments
Delayed legislative agenda

7. Overcoming Divided Government
Generate support through the media
Veto threats
Making deals with leaders
Interest group coalitions
Executive orders
Operate through White House staff