2. Why do we need a
president?
Articles of Confederation (the
failed first attempt at govt. plan)
No strong central govt.
Difficult to enforce laws
Needed someone to keep the
legislative branch (Congress) in
check.
4. Article II of Constitution
Commander in chief of military
Appoints heads of executive departments (cabinet members)
Conducts foreign policy
Treaties
Appoints ambassadors
Appoints federal judges
Can pardon people
Ensures laws are “faithfully executed”
Delivers annual State of the Union Address
Can propose new laws (but congress has to pass them)
5. Expansion of Power
“I have used every ounce of
power there was in the office
and I have not cared a rap
for the criticisms of those
who spoke of my „usurpation‟
of power;…I believe that the
efficiency of this government
depends upon its possessing
a strong central executive…”
-Theodore Roosevelt, 1908
6. Presidents who have
expanded power
Thomas Jefferson- (group 1- p.247)
Abraham Lincoln- (group 2- p.247)
Franklin D. Roosevelt- (group 3- p.248)
George W. Bush- (group 4- p. 248)
7. Public Opinion
Important to maintain a good relationship with the
people- need strong popular support to keep power
Exposure through the Media!!
Television
Newspapers
Magazines
Radio
8. Limits to Power
Congress can override veto
Impeachment (Johnson and Clinton- Nixon resigned
before he was impeached)
Supreme Court can declare actions unconstitutional
Public disapproval
Max. of 2 terms
