Executive Leadership
Federalist essay that argues for “energy” in the executive and supports a single, decisive executive.
Federalist No. 70.
Which action lets the President refuse to allow a bill to become law after Congress passes it?
Veto the bill.
Which branch can check the President by interpreting the constitutionality of executive actions?
The judicial branch (Supreme Court).
Which White House official manages the President’s schedule and staff?
Chief of Staff manages schedule and staff
a short-term increase in presidential approval following a crisis.
What is a “rally point” and when does it typically occur for a President?
Founding Father most closely aligns with the idea that a strong, energetic executive is necessary (options included John Adams, George Washington, Alexander Hamilton, Thomas Jefferson)?
Alexander Hamilton.
When might a President use an executive order rather than working through Congress? Give one specific example described in the text.
Example: When the President acts unilaterally on immigration enforcement via executive actions (e.g., DACA/DAPA) instead of new legislation.
Supreme Court case that checked presidential claims of executive privilege (hint: historical Watergate case). Which President was involved? (you should have read about it)
United States v. Nixon (the Court rejected absolute executive privilege) — President Richard Nixon.
Which White House unit prepares the federal budget and oversees its implementation?
Office of Management and Budget (OMB).
What effect do high public approval ratings have on a President’s ability to pass legislation?
High approval ratings make it easier to persuade Congress and the public, enhancing legislative success.
According to Federalist No. 70, what main advantage does a single executive provide when responding to crises?
A single executive allows quick, decisive action and accountability in emergencies.
What is the primary function of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), according to the provided content?
To prepare the federal budget and oversee its implementation.
Describe the main purpose of the War Powers Resolution of 1973
To limit the President’s ability to engage in hostilities abroad without congressional authorization — requires consultation and time limits on troop deployments.
advises the President on national security and foreign policy matters.
The National Security Council
This theory describes a president who expands executive power, uses unilateral actions during wartime, and works with a large staff
The theory of the modern president.
two formal roles of the President that relate to domestic leadership
Chief Executive — enforces laws, appoints/removes officials; Chief Legislator — proposes agenda, recommends legislation, signs/vetoes bills.
The difference between an executive order and an executive agreement. Give one example (real or hypothetical) of each.
Executive order: directive issued by the President to manage the executive branch (e.g., a regulation on enforcement priorities). Executive agreement: international arrangement with another country that does not require Senate ratification (e.g., routine diplomatic agreements).
Explain how the Supreme Court’s partial upholding and partial striking down of a presidential policy (e.g., parts of a travel ban) demonstrates judicial review and checks on the executive. Provide a brief rationale.
The Court’s partial uphold/strike-down shows it can review executive acts and declare unconstitutional portions, thereby limiting executive reach while preserving lawful parts.
Distinguish the role of the Chief of Staff from that of a Cabinet secretary. Provide one responsibility unique to each.
Chief of Staff: manages White House staff and flow of information to President; Cabinet secretary: leads a department and manages policy/operations for that executive department.
When should a newly elected President attempt major legislative reforms, according to the text?
During the "honeymoon period"
early in a president’s first term (first six months); best time to pursue major reforms.
two ways Congress can check the President’s power (one formal and one informal), and give a short example for each
Formal: Senate can refuse to confirm appointments or override vetoes; example: rejection of a cabinet nominee. Informal: public hearings and investigative oversight affecting public opinion; example: oversight hearings that damage presidential standing.
Using the passage about November 20, 2014, identify which kind of presidential power was used when Deferred Action for Parents of Americans was announced and explain why it is categorized as formal or informal
The November 20, 2014 action used an informal/unilateral executive action (often characterized as deferred enforcement or executive action on immigration) — considered an informal power because it is not a law passed by Congress though based on executive discretion in enforcement.
Provide two ways Congress can check the President’s power (one formal and one informal), and give a short example for each.
Formal: Senate can refuse to confirm appointments or override vetoes; example: rejection of a cabinet nominee. Informal: public hearings and investigative oversight affecting public opinion; example: oversight hearings that damage presidential standing.
Explain how the White House Office and the Cabinet differ in how their members obtain office (appointment/confirmation vs. hiring) and in whom they principally advise.
White House Office staff are appointed directly by the President (no Senate confirmation) and advise personally; Cabinet secretaries are nominated by the President and confirmed by the Senate and head large federal departments.
one cause and one consequence of an extended decline in a President’s approval ratings with respect to legislative success and use of executive power.
Cause: scandal or unpopular policy decisions; consequence: legislative gridlock and greater reliance on executive orders/unilateral actions.