Presidential Roles

How does the President model the character traits of the Chief Citizen?

-The President should be viewed as a model citizen. He and his family should be trustworthy and respectable. He carries himself with honor and dignity. -The President and his family may be seen doing community service or volunteering to help others. -The President and his family may be seen going to church, or doing everyday "family activities". -The President will never be seen acting in a crude or inappropriate way, always being respectful and keeping a cool demeanor.

What are pardons? What are reprieves? Provide some famous examples in history.

A pardon excuses an allegedly guilty person from punishment. A reprieve delays punishment, as in delaying an execution until DNA evidence is tested

What is the Federal Bureaucracy?

About 500 different departments and agencies that help carry out the responsibilities of the executive branch.

What are Independent Agencies? Provide a few examples. What role does the President have in these agencies?

Agencies that are not part of the executive (cabinet) departments. They might also be agencies that are not under the direct control of the president, or whose directors may serve before or after a President is in office. The heads of these agencies are nominated by the President (confirmed by Senate), but are not under the direct control of the executive branch so as to allow them some independence from political pressure.

What other positions are nominated by the President? How does the President decide whom to pick for these positions?

All federal judges. Ambassadors to foreign nations. The heads of some agencies and commissions. The President often selects members of his party for these positions to ensure support for his/the party's agenda. Or he rewards loyal supporters or campaign donors with positions in the executive branch.

Who does the president select to help carry out his foreign policy wishes with each individual nation? How do these people serve the president?

Ambassadors. These people are the President's and the State Department's contacts in a particular nation and have constant contact with the leaders in that nation to deal with relations and issues that may arise.

What types of successful programs or organizations might receive special recognition from the President?

Any program that is doing things to improve our country. Environmental or green energy programs. Great recycling efforts. Advances in medicine, technology. Social programs for victims of violence, or programs improving inner city areas. Successful Educational programs. Etc, etc.

What does the Constitution say about taking America to war? (look in both Articles I and II).

Article I, Section 8, Clause 11 states that Congress has the power to declare war. Article II, Section 2 states that the President is Commander-in-chief of the Army and Navy (armed forces).

How is Chief of Party connected to advancing the party's agenda? Provide multiple ways in which the president carries out this task.

As the leader and most influential member of his party, it is The President's job to work to advance the party's agenda. The President advances the party agenda by pushing for policies that accomplish what his party supports. He does this via... -The State of the Union Address- informing Congress & the people what policies he feels should be implemented. -Working with members of Congress to introduce bills and support his policies. -Giving speeches and talking to the American people. Using the "bully pulpit" (see 'd').

What limitations are there on the presidential use of the military in a foreign land? Explain these limitations.

Congress ultimately controls the funding for the military, and can withhold funds if they do not approve of the Presidents use of the military. The War Powers Act, passed in 1973, states that if the President sends troops into a foreign land, he must... 1. Notify congress in writing with 48 hours, and explain the reason for the engagement, and scope and duration of the operation. 2. If Congress does not approve the operation or declare way, the President must recall the troops after 60 days. 3. Congress can vote to end the operation at any time.

The president often attends summits with other foreign nations to deal with a variety of issues. Provide some examples.

Environmental summits Economic and trade summits Peace Summits to end a war or hostilities.

What are Executive orders? Provide some examples of orders that helped the President carry out the duties of the Executive Branch.

Executive Orders are legally binding orders issued by the President that have the full force of law. However, they can be nullified by Congressional laws, or ruled unconstitutional by the courts.

What is an executive order?

Executive Orders are legally binding orders issued by the President that have the full force of law. However, they can be nullified by Congressional laws, or ruled unconstitutional by the courts. The order typically directs members of the Executive Branch to do or enforce something.

Who do other nations send to the US to carry out their foreign policy goals? What role does the President/Executive Branch play in that arrangement?

Foreign Ambassadors. The President and/or his State Dept. officials will receive and recognize these ambassadors as the official representatives of that nation.

The President is responsible for establishing the policies and the type of relationship the United States will have with another nation. Provide an example of a policy with a friendly nation, and an example of a policy with a nation with whom the United States is not friendly.

Friendly- The US has a trade agreement, or an an agreement to defend another nation. Unfriendly: The US has a trade embargo on a nation.

The President may serve as a mediator between hostile or unfriendly nations. Provide some examples of how the President and/or his staff carry out this role.

Generic Example: The President and his advisors may help negotiate a peace treaty between two warring nations, especially if peace is a significant interest to the United States.

How does the President serve as Chief of State when foreign dignitaries visit the United States?

He receives the dignitaries at the White House. Often this is a formal ceremony, and might include a joint speech in the Rose Garden, or a meeting in the White House. There might also be an official state dinner.

How does The President act as Chief Citizen when an area suffers a natural disaster or horrific event? Why is it important for The President to do this?

If an area of the country experiences a crisis, he will visit personally to let those people know that the United States of America is there for them and will help them through the crisis. This is extremely important for morale, as well as gaining attention for the area.

How does The President help ease concerns of Americans and/or inform them during a national crisis as Chief Citizen?

If the nation experiences a crisis (a tragedy or disaster), people look the President for guidance and support. He will address the people to explain the situation, what the country plans to do about it, and to ease their concerns.

Who helps the president run the Department of Defense? What responsibilities does this person have?

In keeping with the concept of civilian control over the military, the Secretary of Defense is the CEO of the Defense Department, and is responsible for managing the department, and making sure it carries out its duties and the President's wishes. The secretary is responsible for managing the defense budget, overseeing its programs, and managing and directing personnel.

What must happen to a negotiated treaty to make it "official"

It must be ratified by a 2/3 vote in the Senate.

What types of significant events or holidays are recognized and celebrated by the Chief of State?

National Holidays Recognizing Religious holidays.

What are some military/defense alliances to which the United States belongs? How do these alliances work? What are the US obligations?

Obviously NATO. Look up other alliances.

The president is responsible for negotiating many different types of treaties. List at least 3 different types.

Peace Treaties to end hostilities. Immigration treaties. Trade Agreements Environmental Treaties Defense Agreements

Why might the President issue an executive order instead of having Congress make a law?

Perhaps Congress is not acting quickly enough, and The President feels the policy is needed. Perhaps there is not enough support for the policy in Congress, The President takes the power on his own.

What group of people, selected by the President, is responsible for helping him carry out the duties of the Executive Branch The Cabinet? Select 1 department and provide examples of how they carry out that department's duties. This should reveal the hierarchy of that department.

Select any department, show the head of that department, then select one or two subdivisions, agencies, or bureaus inside of that department that carry out that department's duties. Your slides will show examples of those people carrying out their duties

How does the first Lady help serve the President in the Chief of State role?

She, as well as the VP, might do all of the above activities when the President is unable to attend or recognize those functions or activities.

List some achievements by individuals or groups that might be recognized/celebrated by the President.

Sports achievements International awards or honors.

What cabinet department is in charge of conducting US foreign policy for the president?

State

What is the "bully pulpit? Explain how presidents use this tactic to influence Congress.

The "Bully Pulpit" is a term coined by Theodore Roosevelt to describe The President's being in a powerful position to promote or advocate for an agenda. The President has a national audience that no other official has, and can appeal to the people to support a policy, and that can put pressure on Congress into supporting the policy. The word 'bully' meant good when Bully Pulpit was coined. Now bully might be more appropriate as a way to pressure congress to do what the president wants.

Explain how Presidents use the "bully pulpit."

The "Bully Pulpit" is a term coined by Theodore Roosevelt to describe The President's being in a powerful position to promote or advocate for an agenda. The President has a national audience that no other official has, and can appeal to the people to support a policy, and that can put pressure on, or "bully" Congress into supporting the policy.

How does the President get a bill introduced in Congress?

The Constitution states he is allowed to recommend legislation, but he may not introduce it. He relies on a member of his party to do that. It is considered an honor to sponsor a bill proposed by The President if he is a member of your party.

5. What is the Executive Office of the President? List some of the positions, and explain how they help the President as Chief Executive?

The Executive Office of the President (EOP) includes the White House Staff, and about 2000 other support staff who help the President carry out the day to day duties of the Executive Branch. They assist the WHS and provide support for them in their given filed of expertise.

What White House Staff members help the President with this task, and what do they do?

The Legislative Affairs Director, and the Office of Legislative Affairs, will reach out to members of Congress to gain support for bills. They will meet with law makers, and consider compromises or possibly even make deals with them in trade for their votes.

What member of the White House Staff is the President's chief advisor on foreign affairs? Provide examples of how this person advises the President daily.

The National Security Advisor. This person meets with President daily to update the President on security issues around the world. They also provide the President with his daily security brief. The National Security Advisor is in constant contact with the security agencies and the military

What is the President's role as Chief of Party?

The President automatically becomes the leader and spokesperson for his political party.

How does the President as Chief of Party work to increase the numbers of people from his party holding office?

The President campaigns for members of his party running for various offices across the nation. He may show up at a campaign event for a member of Congress, or publicly endorse a governor or mayor. This is extremely important for his party to increase the party's influence across the nation.

What role does the President as Commander-in-Chief play in ending wars and promoting peace?

The President can order an end to hostilities, and dictate the peace terms for the United States. He (or his representatives), will negotiate for the terms he requests. Look up examples of peace treaties that ended wars. Also, times when US Troops remained in nations to enforce or secure the peace.

What role does the President play in increasing funds for his party to use in elections?

The President does a lot of fundraising for his party. He might attend fundraising events, like speaking at a dinner where attendees pay a sizable amount to attend the function. This money goes to his party to support campaign efforts. The President may also call significant contributors to solicit donations over the phone.

What powers and responsibilities does the President have when it comes to nuclear weapons?

The President has the ultimate authority on the use of nuclear weapons. He oversees the arsenal, and is responsible for its use and security. A military officer is always with the President and carrying the "Nuclear Football", a brief case that contains the ability to launch a nuclear strike.

What is the role of Commander-in-Chief?

The President is in charge of all the armed forces, and decides if, when, and how they will be put into action.

What is the role of the President at Chief Diplomat?

The President is responsible for all the foreign policy for the United States. If we will have relations with a nation, and what those relations will be.

1. What is the role of Chief Executive? (What does he do? Who does he oversee?)

The President is the CEO for the United States. He oversees the entire executive branch, which is responsible for carrying out and enforcing the laws of the US. He selects the heads of the executive departments who are responsible for making sure the laws are executed to his wishes.

What is the President's role as chief of State?

The President is the ceremonial head of the United States. The First Lady, as well as the Vice President also assist The President in this role.

What is the role of President as Chief Legislator?

The President is the chief policy maker for the United States. As such, The President sets the legislative agenda for the nation. The President has more influence on legislation than anyone.

Explain as Chief Citizen, how the President represents the interests of the general welfare against selfish, partisan interests?

The President is the only official elected by the entire nation. As such, he is everybody's President, whether they voted for him or not. The President is expected to place the country's best interest ahead of narrow or partisan interests. Examples could be supporting an agenda that helps a large group of people, even if it might cost him politically.

What is the role of Chief Citizen?

The President is the representative of all the American People. He is supposed to be the face of the people, and represent their interests. He should be the trusted leader.

How does the President use his appointment power to repay those who support his agenda?

The President may appoint loyal followers who have helped him with his policy agenda. These could be people in the private sector who have supported his policies, or an elected official who supported him.

How does the President use his appointment power repay those who helped get him elected?

The President may appoint to government positions people who have campaigned for him or helped him get elected, or possibly people who have made significant financial contributions to his campaign.

How might the President use the military within the United States?

The President may order troops into an area where riots are occurring, like in many urban areas the late 1960s. The President may order troops to help restore order after a natural disaster, or assist with the clean up efforts.

How might the President use the military to help other countries who are in need, but not at war?

The President may send the military to help n relief efforts after disasters. The President may also send troops, at the request of another nation, to help restore order after turmoil.

Other than protecting our allies, in what others ways does the President use the military to protect US interests abroad? Provide different examples.

The President may use the military to... -Protect vital interests such as merchant ships on the high seas or protect and portal vital trade routes. -Protect vital resources, like oil or other precious materials. -To support leaders or governments that are friendly to the United States. -Protect or evacuate American citizens who are near a potentially dangerous area.

What are some ways the President and/or his advisors might try to accomplish this goal?

The President might reach out to a foreign nation or attend a summit with that nations leaders to work out a deal. The President may visit that nation or invite its leaders to visit the White House. The President may send the Secretary of State to meet with foreign leaders, or have our ambassador to that nation work to reach agreements.

List the types of foreign events at which the President might represent the United States as the Chief of State. Why is it important for the President to attend these events?

The President might represent the United States at the funeral for another important head of state, or significant world leader. The President may represent the US at a significant sporting event. It is important to show the people of our nation, as well as the people of other nations, that the United States is paying attention or cares about the event. It tends to lend legitimacy to the event. The President is there as the representative of our entire nation.

Explain how the Presidents' choices for federal and Supreme Court judges could be considered the final step in his role as Chief Legislator. Explain using a generic or specific example.

The President nominates all federal judges. These judges could rule on the constitutionality of legislation supported by The President and/or his party. A liberal president would like y nominate fairly liberal judges, who would then likely have more liberal views on the constitutionality of a law. Provide examples of when Supreme Court Justices ruled the way the President who appointed them would have wanted them to rule.

How does The President let Congress and the American People know about the items he thinks should be on the legislative agenda?

The President presents his legislative agenda in the State of the Union address before a joint session of congress. In this, he lets Congress and the American People know what he feels need to be the priorities for the upcoming year. The President appeals to the people through speeches, press conferences, and televised addresses to explain his rationale, drum up support, and influence the American People to support his agenda.

How does the State of the Union Address play into the role of Chief Citizen?

The President uses the State of the Union to talk to the American people and let them know what he feels the priorities should be for the nation. He explains what he feels the country should do, and why. This keeps the people apprised of what he and his administration are doing for them.

List and explain the 4 options the President has when he is sent a bill from Congress.

The President usually signs the bill into law. The President may veto the bill. It requires a 2/3 vote in each house of Congress to override a veto. If the bill figuratively sits on his desk for 10 days..... ... and Congress is still in session, then it becomes a law without The President's signature. A president may do this as a protest if the bill is not one he supports, but does not want to veto it. .... And Congress adjourns during the 10 days, it becomes a "pocket veto". This way, a lot of bills rushed through at the end of a session can be killed without The President actually having to veto it himself.

How does the President use his appointment power to promote his party's agenda? Provide some examples.

The President will appoint people to key positions who will promote the party's agenda. He will appoint fellow party members with similar views to run his executive departments, as well as agency appointments. The President will also appoint federal judges who have similar views in hopes they will make decisions that support the party's views on issues.

How does the President assist Congress in getting bills passed?

The President will invite congressional leaders to the White House to meet and discuss legislation that may be controversial or debated. He helps these leaders try to reach a compromise that is suitable for both sides. The President may also use the bully pulpit to influence public opinion and/or pressure lawmakers to support legislation.

With which leaders in Congress does the President meet to promote his party's agenda? How does the President work with these leaders to achieve these goals?

The President will meet with leaders of his party in each house (majority or minority leaders, whichever the case may be). He often invites them to the White House, possibly with the opposition leaders, too, to try to work out deals. The President may also reach out to these leaders by phone or other means to ask for their support. The President can use the power and influence of The White House to support his party's agenda, and to help Congressional leaders work together to come an agreement.

What steps does the President take to educate the American people on important issues as Chief Citizen?

The President will speak to the people, like in a public service announcement, to educate them about an issue, like a spreading disease or economic crisis. He will also direct the appropriate executive departments to inform the people about what a problem is and what could or should be done. Examples could be the President talking to the American People about a disease epidemic, or explaining an international event, like a foreign crisis.

What is the White House Staff? List some of these positions. How do they help the President as Chief Executive?

The President's closest advisors who work in the West Wing of the White House. Headed by the Chief of Staff- the President's top advisor who supervises the other members of the WHS. National Security Advisor- Top aid on national security issues, like terrorist threats or military situations. Domestic Policy Advisor- Top aid on domestic issues, like the economy, or national disasters. Press Secretary- Briefs the media and serves as buffer between the press and the President.

The President is sometimes called the Chief Economic Planner. What does he do in carrying out this role? Who helps him with this task?

The President, with help from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) submits a budget to Congress that identifies the priorities for each year. Ultimately, Congress decides which parts of the budget to approve, and how much money each program receives. But the President submits the budget and lets the American People know what he feels is important. The President also meets with economic leaders to try to improve the economy and reduce unemployment.

What cabinet member is the president's chief representative in foreign relations? Provide examples of how this person serves the President.

The Secretary of State. The Secretary is often in other nations meeting with foreign leaders and diplomats to try to solve issues and disputes.

What must happen for these positions to be confirmed?

The Senate must approve cabinet heads and judges.

Who does the President select to represent the US at the United Nations? How does this person serve the President?

The US Ambassador to the United Nations. This person represents the US at the UN, and will meet with and negotiate with other UN ambassadors to try to carry out the wishes of The President.

In what ways does the president use the military to protect the United States from terrorists, both at home and abroad?

The US Military, along with the Dept. of Homeland Security and the NSA, protect the borders and strategic locations within the United States. The President also orders the military to attack terrorist groups in other parts of the world.

What are some of the difficulties Presidents face in controlling the bureaucracy?

The bureaucracy contains over 1 million people. He only knows a handful of them, so controlling them can be difficult. Also, many of the people were there before him and will be there after he is gone. If they do not agree with his policies, they may choose to not implement them as thoroughly as he wishes.

Who makes up the Joints Chiefs of Staff, and what do they do?

The heads of the different branches of the military. They are the principle advisors to the President and Secretary of Defense on all military matters, like strategies, readiness, personnel, etc. They do not have the power to make decisions, but they provide the most valuable military opinions to the President.

What is a "party's agenda"?

The party agenda are the things in the party's platform that the President and members of his party support and try to get implemented into policy.

What powers does the President have when it comes to using the military in a foreign land?

The president decides... -If we will attack or defend a nation. He decides what the goals and objectives will be. -If we send in troops, or air attach, or other means. -What weapons and resources will be used, and how they will be used. -When the operation will end.

How does the "trust of the American People" play into the role of Chief Citizen? In what ways can the President maintain this trust?

The trust of the American People is vital to being the Chief Citizen. If he loses this trust, the people will not support him, nor look to him for guidance and leadership. The President maintains trust by being honest and transparent, explaining why he has made certain choices, and taking responsibility for mistakes. The President must keep in contact with the people and not seem distant of uncaring.

What are Regulatory Agencies? Provide a few examples. What role does the President have in these agencies?

These are independent commissions that regulate or punish wrong doers. The President may nominate the heads of the commissions, but they are largely independent in enforcing the laws and rules. He cannot fire them unless he has cause.

Provide an example of the President and his executive branch carrying out a law

This should be a law passed by congress that needs to be implemented or carried out, but nobody is getting arrested or charged for violating the law. Generic example: An executive department hires people to do a certain task called for by the law.

Provide an example of the President and his executive branch enforcing a law.

This should be a law were some kind of federal officer is arresting or charging someone for breaking that law.

What is the main goal of diplomacy?

To reach agreements with other nations without using force or going to war.