1. THE PRESIDENCY

2. Today We are Focusing on THE PRESIDENT (Executive Branch/National Level)

3. Military Powers  The president is the commander-in-chief (big boss) of the American military.  However, our Constitution says that only Congress has the power to declare war.  War Powers Act of 1973: President cannot send troops into action for more than 60 days without Congressional authorization or a declaration of war.

4. Appointment Power  The president has a lot of responsibility. For each thing he is responsible for, he has a primary advisor. There are 15 of these advisors total, as a group they are called the cabinet.  Each of these 15 advisors has the title of Secretary and is in charge of a particular Department. For example, Secretary Gates is in charge of the Department of Defense.  The head of the Department of Justice is special, he/she is called the Attorney General.  Each cabinet members is nominated by the president and confirmed by the Senate.

5. Other Powers  President can veto (refuse to sign) legislation passed by Congress, but Congress can override his veto with a 2/3s vote in the House and Senate  President can pardon any criminal who has been convicted of a federal crime.

6. Summary:  The President is the executive branch. He is the commander of the military, can appoint people to work for him (the cabinet), can veto laws, and pardon criminals.