Constitutional Foundations
Which article in the Constitution established the executive branch?
Article II
Which branch can override a presidential veto with a two-thirds vote?
When the President meets foreign leaders and signs treaties, which role are they performing?
Chief Diplomat
What legislation passed in 1973 limited the President's power to send troops into conflict?
The War Powers Act
Who was the only president to serve more than two terms?
Franklin D. Roosevelt
What is the main job of the President as Chief Executive?
Before a person can become a Cabinet secretary or federal judge, which branch must approve the President's nomination?
What is the Senate?
As Commander-in-Chief, what power does the President have?
Control of the armed forces and able to make military decisions.
Which amendment limits a President to two terms in office?
The 22nd Amendment
Who must approve the President's major appointments and treaties?
The Senate
The specific powers of the presidency listed directly in the Constitution are called what?
Enumerated powers
How can the judicial branch limit the President's use of executive orders?
They can declare an executive order unconstitutional through judicial review
As Head of State, the President performs which kinds of duties?
Ceremonial roles, such as hosting state dinners, giving medals, or throwing the first pitch of the World Series.
What allows the President to keep information secret for national security reasons?
Executive privilege
The President gives this speech each year to outline goals and priorities
The State of the Union Address
Name one formal qualification to become President
35 years old, resident for 14 years, be a natural-born U.S. Citizen
Why are checks and balances important in a democracy?
To prevent abuse of power and maintain separation of powers
As Chief Executive, the President can issue these official instructions that have the force of law
Executive orders
What is the power called when the President forgives a convicted criminal?
Pardon
When might the President want to use executive orders/agreements more often?
If there are national emergencies/crises, or if Congress is uncooperative (i.e., partially or completely controlled by an opposing party)
Why did the Framers make the President's powers more limited and specific than those of Congress in the Constitution?
They feared concentrated executive power would allow the President to become a king
Give one example of what might happen if Congress couldn't check the President's power
Example: The President could pass laws alone or use the military without limits, leading to tyranny.
If a President is campaigning for and endorsing members that share similar political goals/values, they are acting as...
Head of Party
How is an executive order different from a law passed by Congress?
It directs how the government operates without congressional approval, but can be overturned by courts or future presidents.
FDR was not the first president to run for more than two terms. Why was he able to win 4 terms as president?
He was incredibly popular because of the way he handled the Great Depression and World War II.