1. The Presidency: Presidential Powers
Chapter 11
Section 2

2. Presidential Powers: Military
President is the commander-in-chief of the armed services
As a civilian, he is the highest ranking person in the military
Congress declares war, but the president runs the war
Wars are not always declared
After Vietnam congress passed the war powers act
This required the president to notify congress within 48 hours of putting troops into harms way
Congress must then authorize the action within 60 days

3. Presidential Powers: Diplomatic
President is chief diplomat:
Recognizes foreign governments and greets foreign heads of state
Has the power to negotiate treaties (WTO, NAFTA, etc.)
Senate does have to ratify
Can also make “executive agreements”
Agreements made between the heads of state of two countries (don’t have the same force as treaties)

4. Presidential Powers: Executive Powers
Executive Orders: Rules or regulations that have the weight of law but do not require congressional approval
Appoints certain office-holders (e.g. Judges)
Presidential Pardons: Release from formal punishment

5. Presidential Powers: Legislative Powers
President has the power to veto bills from congress
Pocket veto happens within 10 days of the end of a congressional session
Line item veto allows the president to strike out certain parts of a bill (instead of vetoing the whole bill)
Congress can override a veto with 2/3 vote