Presidential Power

Days 41–43: Article II & The Executive

Ref: DB-L3-W9A
Unit: Machinery

Student Name: _________________________________________________

Date: ____________

Article II: The Executive

While Article I (Legislative) is long and specific, Article II is remarkably brief. It begins with the vesting clause: "The executive Power shall be vested in a President of the United States of America."

This brevity has allowed the power of the presidency to expand significantly over time. The President’s primary job is to execute (carry out and enforce) the laws passed by Congress.

Definition

What does it mean to execute a law? How is it different from legislating one?

The Seven Roles of the President

1. Chief Executive

Enforces laws, issues executive orders, and appoints officials.

2. Commander-in-Chief

Leader of the nation’s armed forces (military).

3. Chief Diplomat

Directs foreign policy and negotiates treaties.

4. Chief Legislator

Proposes laws and signs or vetoes bills.

5. Chief of State

Ceremonial leader; the living symbol of the nation.

6. Party Leader

Face and main strategist for their political party.

7. Chief Citizen

The representative of all the people; expected to provide moral leadership and work for the public interest.

Formal vs. Informal Power

Formal (Enumerated)

Powers specifically listed in Article II.

Vetoing legislation
Granting pardons
Appointing judges
Negotiating treaties

Informal (Inherent)

Powers claimed as necessary to the job.

Executive Orders: Law-like rules.
Executive Privilege: Secrecy.
Bully Pulpit: Media pressure.

Expansion of Authority

1. Which role of the President do you think is the most powerful? Provide one specific reason to support your choice.

2. Explain how an Executive Order allows the President to bypass the standard lawmaking process. Why might this be controversial?

Presidential Power Reader

Presidential Power Reader