1. The Executive Branch “The Leadership Branch”
The Presidency
The Executive Branch
“The Leadership Branch”

2. The Evolution of Presidential Influence
Legislative actions
National expansion and various crises
Judicial review
The threat of war
The mass media, particularly television
Increasing federal involvement in economic and social issues

3. Characteristics of the Ideal Executive
Courage
Experience
Political savvy
A sense of history and constitutionalism
Vision
Listening and teaching skills
Communication skills
Morale-building skills

4. Executive Responsibilities
To serve as chief executive of the federal bureaucracy
To nominate and appoint key officials
To implement and enforce laws
To veto unwise bills
To negotiate treaties
To recognize foreign nations
To serve as commander in chief
To serve as chief of state
To pardon or grand clemency
To propose an annual budget
To develop policies that promote peace and prosperity

5. Functions of White House Staff
Domestic policy
Economic policy
National security or foreign policy
Administration and personnel matters
Congressional relations
Public relations