3.8 Summary of the Executive Branch

Main job is to "enforce laws" passed by the Congress. He does this by signing them once they reach his desk.

To ensure that the laws are enforced, the president can issue an executive order, directing all federal departments to carry out or enforce the new law (s) that have been passed by Congress.

He can nominate new judges, when positions become available.

He makes treaties with foreign nations.

He is the Commander and Chief of the nation's armed forces.

He can pardon criminals of crimes so that they can seek and obtain employment.

Cannot make new laws. This is the role of Congress.

He cannot declare war on another nation. He must receive the consent of Congress. This would be too much power for one person.

He cannot declare laws unconstitutional. Only the courts can do this!

He cannot appoint heads of government departments without the Consent of Congress.

All presidential treaties must be approved by Congress.

A president CANNOT pardon himself of crimes he may have committed.

America's founders wanted something different. They wanted a leader who would be elected by the people for a term and then step down when the term was over. They did not want a King.

Presidential powers are listed in Article 2. It is a small list, but presidential powers have been growing due to court cases and presidential actions dealing with situations impacting the country. Example: US involvement in foreign wars.

A "CHECK" happens when one branch has a direct role that impacts what another branch can do. Example: Congress passes a bill through both Houses, BUT the President can veto or say NO to that bill. This is a check!

However, some "checks" do not really impact how another branch does its job, BUT can change the make up of who gets to sit in that branch. Example: The president can NOMINATE new judges. This is a check. Similarly, the Senate can deny this nomination, this is also a check!