1. The Power of the President
Chapter 14

2. Executive Powers Executing the Law
- Must execute all laws regardless of his/her own personal opinion
The Ordinance Power
- Has the power to issue executive orders, which is a directive, rule or regulation that has the effect of a law

3. Executive Powers con’t
The Appointment Power
ambassadors, diplomats
Cabinet members and top aides
Heads of agencies (EPA, NASA)
Federal judges, US Marshals, attorneys
Officers in the armed forces
***With Senate consent
The Removal Power
Can remove anyone he/she appoints other than federal judges
Most of the time it is called a “resignation.”

4. Diplomatic and Military Powers
Make Treaties
A formal agreement between 2 or more sovereign states
Requires a 2/3 vote from the Senate
Is as strong a a law
Executive Agreements
A pact between the President and the head of a state
Does not require Senate approval
Usually comes along with a previous law or treaty already approved by the Senate

5. Diplomatic and Military Powers con’t
Power of Recognition
Acknowledging the existence of a country and its government
Done by exchanging a diplomatic representative
Does not mean approval
Commander In Chief
Has the final authority over and responsibility for all military matters
Undeclared war? – not “war,” but still military action
War Powers Resolution:
Has 48 hours to report to Congress
60 day limit without Congressional approval
Congress can end commitment at any time.

6. Legislative and Judicial Powers
Legislative Powers
Recommends legislation through the State of the Union
Can veto bills (line-item veto is not allowed)
Can adjourn Congress if they cannot agree on a date (has never happened)
Judicial Powers
Reprieve – postponement of the execution of a sentence
Pardon – legal forgiveness of a crime
Commutation – reduce the length of a sentence
Amnesty – a pardon given to a group of law violators
*** Only in federal cases and not in cases of impeachment