The Roles of the PresidentNotes

Roles of the President• Chief Executive

o Power to carry out laws passed by Congress Aided by his Cabinet & about 3 million civilians who

work for the federal government Can issue executive orders which have the force of

law but do not require Congress’s approval Can appoint judges to the Supreme Court Can grant pardons, issue reprieves, & grant amnesty

to a group of people

Roles of the President

Roles of the President• Chief Diplomat

o Power to direct the foreign policy of the U.S. Negotiates treaties which require Senate approval Issues executive agreements which by-pass the

Senate but last only while that president is in office Appoints ambassadors

Roles of the President

Roles of the President• Commander-in-Chief

o Power to back up foreign policy decisions with force, if necessary Orders American soldiers into battle

Congress has formally declared war 5 times Presidents have sent troops into battle more than

150 times since 1789 Limited by the War Powers Act of 1973

Roles of the President

Roles of the President• Legislative Leader

o Power to suggest legislation to Congress Only members of Congress can formally introduce

bills Presidents makes speeches, meets with

representatives & senators, and appeals to the American people in order to influence legislation

Annual State of the Union Address is the most important of these speeches

Roles of the President

Roles of the President• Head of State

o Power to carry out ceremonial functions for Americans Includes meeting with visiting foreign leaders,

giving medals to the country’s heroes, lighting the national Christmas tree, throwing out the first pitch of the baseball season, etc.

Roles of the President

Roles of the President• Economic Leader

o Responsibility to help the country’s economy prosper Presidents have an important role in planning the

federal government’s budget

Roles of the President• Party Leader

o Responsibility to lead his political party Make speeches to help fellow party members who are

running for office Helps the party raise money