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Content: The president does have some privileges that are not
granted to other citizens. The president must recognize the legitimate claims of
the other two branches of government and understand that these branches may have valid reasons to seek information from the executive branch. Diplomatic Powers
The president represents the United States in its interactions with foreign governments
The constitution gives the president the power to
negotiate treaties, or formal agreements between two or more countries that are used to end conflicts, form alliances, and establish trade relationships
The president's treaty-making power is
limited by Congress
Two-thirds
of the Senate must vote to approve any treaty, making any amendments it sees fit to in the process
Presidents also have the power to
make executive agreements
Executive agreements
are agreements between a president and the head of a foreign government
Executive agreement
does not require the advice and consent of the Senate; however, executive agreements are similar to treaties in that they have the effect of law
The president also has the power to
formally recognize the legitimacy of a foreign government known as diplomatic recognition
Military Powers
The president has the responsibility to ensure the defense and security of the nation and its interests around the world
The Constitution gives Congress the power to
declare war, but presidents have claimed the power to take military action without a formal declaration of war from Congress
Under the terms of the resolution, if a president must commit forces without congressional authorization, he or she must report to Congress within
48 hours to explain the reasons for the action
The law allows Congress to force a president to
end the use of armed forces at any time if Congress passes a concurrent resolution (war powers) to that effect
Legislative Powers
main power-president can veto - congress can override veto if ⅔ members vote
Judicial Powers
president nominates federal judges, justices, and members of supreme court- grant reprieves (postpone sentence), pardons (release criminal), and offer amnesty (general group pardon)- clemency
Informal Powers
not directly stated in the constitution. - position as party leader. - presidents use media to build support of the public. Formal Checks
Powers of president are checked by Congress. Also, judicial review takes place if a president's actions are unconstitutional. informal checks
the media ultimately keeps public informed on potential power struggles. Changes in Presidential Power
Many early presidents believed in congressional predominance (didn't veto unless constitutionality was threatened)- giving the people the power
Presidential Power Expands
can't always rely on congress
Teddy Roosevelt's Big Stick Foreign Policy
bully pulpit - pres ability to speak out on issues and have influence
media can work with the president to
project his power, but also work against him to scrutinize him
A president who is skilled in using the media has
greater success in persuading the public and building support.