CrashCourse Government and Politics: Presidential Powers

Introduction

• The President is considered the most powerful person due to leading the most powerful nation.
• Not all presidential powers are explicitly stated in the Constitution.
• Powers are categorized into expressed (formal) and informal (implied/inherent).

Expressed Powers

• Commander in Chief: Leads the armed forces, implied authority over all military branches.
• War Powers: Can use troops without a formal declaration of war by Congress.
  • Examples: Korea, Vietnam, Afghanistan, Iraq.
  • War Powers Resolution: Requires President to gain authorization within 60 days of troop deployment.

Informal Powers in Foreign Policy

• Treaties and Ambassadors: Powers to make treaties and appoint ambassadors.
• Executive Agreements: Agreements with foreign nations bypassing Senate ratification.
  • Easier to pass than treaties, examples include GATT and NAFTA.

Executive Office and Administrative Power

• Chief Executive Officer: Power derived from the Presidential Oath and appointment of key officials.
  • Directs cabinet secretaries and administrative agencies.

Legislative Influence

• Legislative Initiative: President can recommend laws and draft legislation for Congress.
  • Example: Affordable Care Act, Dodd-Frank Act.
• Executive Orders: Directives with the force of law, bypassing Congress.
  • Can be overturned by Congress or the Supreme Court.
  • Examples: Desegregation of the military, creation of EPA.

Control Over Congressional Funds

• Impoundment of Funds: President can withhold funds for programs.

Executive Privilege

• Ability to withhold information for national security.
• Can be overturned by court order (e.g., U.S. vs. Nixon).

Conclusion

• Presidential power, especially during wartime, is substantial.
• Powers can expand through presidential initiative or Congress ceding authority.
• Future discussions to include Congressional power dynamics.
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