Chapter 7: The presidency as a institution Flashcards
(22 cards)
Why do many recent presidents leave office with low approval and under political clouds, despite the presidency’s growing strength?
The presidency has grown stronger as an institution. The president’s power as a unitary decision-maker has contributed to this gain. Despite this institutional strength, individual president’s approval can vary widely.
What concerns did the framers of the Constitution have regarding executive power?
Colonial experiences with the King of England and appointed governors. Weaknesses of the executive under the Articles of Confederation.
What key questions did the framers debate regarding the presidency?
- How many people should constitute the executive branch? * How long should presidents serve? * To what extent should the president be independent of other branches? * What powers can be given to the president?
What was Alexander Hamilton’s view on the presidency?
Advocated for an energetic presidency, independent of Congress. Believed unity in the executive (one president) allowed for quicker action. This reflects that all politics is collective action.
How did the framers attempt to balance presidential independence with popular control?
Through the Electoral College system. Sought to remove dependence on congress.
What are the president’s express powers?
- Military * Judicial * Diplomatic * Executive * Legislative (Veto power)
What are delegated powers?
Powers granted to the president by Congress through statutes. Examples: Immigration and trade policy.
What are inherent powers?
Powers asserted by the president, not explicitly in the Constitution or delegated by Congress. Examples: Executive orders, executive agreements.
How would you characterize the presidency in the 19th century?
Generally weak. Limited connection to the public and lack of institutional strength. Strong presidents like Jefferson, Jackson, and Lincoln brought strength to the office. Spoils system.
How did presidential power change in the 20th century?
Increased with the growth of the federal government and bureaucracy. Key turning point: Franklin D. Roosevelt and the New Deal. Increased due to modern warfare and foreign policy crises.
How has presidential power continued to expand in the 21st century?
Growth of the White House staff and Executive Office of the President (EOP). Specialized units within the White House for congressional relations and media outreach. Increased control over the executive branch through appointments, reorganization, executive orders, and administrative oversight.
What are the three types of presidential powers?
- Expressed (explicitly in the Constitution) * Implied (suggested by the Constitution) * Delegated (granted by congress) * Inherent (powers of a branch of government not specifically listed in the constitution)
How do presidential personalities and political skills affect their success?
They play a significant role. Examples: FDR’s crisis leadership, Lyndon Johnson’s legislative skills, Ronald Reagan’s communication skills.
How is presidential power linked to public support?
Presidential power is significantly influenced by popular support.
How has the framers’ ambivalence toward executive power affected the presidency?
Created a ‘gray area’ where presidential strength depends on individual skills and public support, not just constitutional powers.
Fill in the blank: The system used to elect the president is called the _______.
Electoral College
Fill in the blank: Powers granted to the president by Congress through statutes are known as _______.
Delegated powers
Fill in the blank: The executive office that provides support to the president is known as the _______.
EOP (Executive Office of the President)
Fill in the blank: The commission that studied the organization of the executive branch is known as the _______.
Brownlow commission
Fill in the blank: The term used for the President of the United States is _______.
POTUS
True or False: The spoils system refers to the practice of appointing individuals to government positions based on party loyalty.
True
Which of the following is NOT a Presidental power as stated in the constitution ?
The power to declare war
