Article II: The Executive Branch Enforcing the laws that govern the United States of America
What were these men qualified for prior to ascending to the Presidency?
POTUS: President Of The United States Requirements 35 Years of Age Natural Born Citizen Resident the past 14 years Preferences (Most of the Time) Wealth (Self-reliant and focused on public good) Moderate (Avoiding extremes) Background that includes leadership in politics, military, law, business, or education.
The Awesome Responsibility "When I ran for Presidency of the United States, I knew that this country faced serious challenges, but I could not realize - nor could any man realize who does not bear the burdens of this office - how heavy and constant would be those burdens" --"Radio and Television Report to the American People on the Berlin Crisis (302)," July 25, 1961, Public Papers of the Presidents: John F. Kennedy, 1961.
Executive Branch: Purpose Article 2 of the Constitution sets out the structure and functions of the Executive Branch. The Executive Branch contains POTUS, VP,, and all those officials and offices they command. Basic duty of the Executive Branch is to enforce the laws, treaties, and court decisions of the United States. POTUS may issue Executive Orders, which have the legal force of law. POTUS may also issue additional emergency powers in the event of a crisis to protect the country and maintain order.
The President & Congress
POTUS & Congress The President cannot vote in Congress, but he does have the power to influence legislation. Methods include the following: The annual State of the Union Address, The yearly Executive Branch Budget request to Congress, which is the starting point for appropriations negotiations. Calling Congress into Special Session, which puts pressure on them to do something. Signing or vetoing bills. Historically, only about 5% of vetoed bills are successfully over-ridden by Congress.
Diplomacy at Work
Diplomatic Powers Appoints ambassadors and diplomats, but they must be confirmed by the Senate (majority vote). May act as a representative of the nation at international conferences. Negotiates treaties with foreign countries, but the treaties must be ratified by the Senate (2/3 vote). Can issue an Executive Agreement with the leader of a foreign country, which has the legal force of a treaty but does not require ratification by the Senate and only stays in effect as long as the President is in office. Finally, the President grants diplomatic recognition to foreign governments, and grants Most Favored Nation (MFN) status to foreign countries, allowing them free trade with the United States.
Military Actions
Military Powers President is the Commander-in-Chief of our armed forces, a position that by tradition has allowed him to put U.S. troops into combat situations even without a declaration of war. The War Powers Act (1974) spells out how the President shares war powers with Congress. Basically, the President can put our troops into combat for a total of 90 (60+30) days before Congress can force him to get the troops out. The President can also use the armed forces to maintain domestic order or provide emergency assistance to the public.
Presidents in Action
Presidential Roles Chief Executive= Selects and manages government workers Chief of State= Perceived as top citizen of U.S., awards medals, figurehead during celebrations Chief Diplomat= Leader in foreign policy and relations. Makes treaties to benefit U.S. safety & economy Commander-In-Chief= Leader of Armed Forces, acts on behalf of military when faced with a crisis or threat. Chief Legislator= Power to accept or veto bills from Congress, directs intent to Congress through speeches and occasionally executive orders. Chief of Party= Assists party members through reelection Economic Planner= Focuses on programs and policy to address job growth and trade
Presidential Perks
Salary, Terms and Perks Presidency is limited to two terms Salary is $400,000 a year Generous Travel allowance Airforce One ~ Jet, Limousines, helicopter Free medical, dental, healthcare Reside in The White House Lifetime pension of $148,000 per year Other retirement perks (Secret Service, Presidential Library fundraising, Special Intel)
Who are your Top 5? Consider the following when listing your Top 5 presidents: Best 1) Abraham Lincoln 2) George Washington 3) Thomas Jefferson 4) Franklin Roosevelt 5) Harry Truman Era / Society Adversity / Sacrifices made Results after presidency Character / Personality Worst 1) John Tyler 2) Richard Nixon 3) James Buchanan 4) Warren Harding 5) Herbert Hoover
1) How does your ranking compare with the scholars? 2) Identify a ranking that you may find interesting or concerning. Explain.