1. Presidential Powers
GOVT Notes 4-3

2. Presidential Powers (Art. II)
Domestic Powers: give President authority over what goes on inside the U.S.
Powers come from…
Constitution
Tradition
Supreme Court decisions

3. 1. Executive Powers Enforce laws
Set priorities (fight crime, promote healthcare)
Issue Executive Orders: rule issued by the President that has effect of law
(Do not require Congress)

4. Examples of Executive Orders
Video Link

5. 1. Executive Powers B. Appoint federal officials
(Cabinet, judges, ambassadors)
NEED Senate Approval
civil service system: hire and promote people based on qualifications

6. Obama Cabinet 2009

7. 1. Executive Powers C. Executive Privilege
– President may refuse to testify before Congress
– Justified under principle of national security
Thought,s does this make President above the law??

10. 1. Executive Powers EX: U.S. vs. Nixon (1974)
Executive privilege may not be used to withhold evidence needed in criminal proceedings
Thought,s does this make President above the law??

11. 2. Legislative Powers Recommends laws State of the Union Address
January Economic Report
Budget Message
Public Appearance or Press Conference
January Economic Report (since 1946)
Budget Message (since 1921 Budget & Accounting Act)

12. 2. Legislative Powers B. Approves laws Sign bill into law
President does nothing for 10 days and Congress stays in session, the bill becomes law
January Economic Report (since 1946)
Budget Message (since 1921 Budget & Accounting Act)

13. 2. Legislative Powers C. Veto power
Send bill back to Congress with objections
Need 2/3’s vote of Congress to override veto
Less than 10% of vetoes = override
Separation of Powers