This activity is part of Module 8: The Presidency and Executive Power from the Constitution 101 Curriculum.
Presidential Roles
- Chief of the executive branch: Oversees other members of the executive branch. Issues executive orders to carry out and enforce the nation’s laws. Supervises agencies that issue regulations under the authority of laws passed by Congress. Takes care that the laws are faithfully executed. Appoints executive branch officials, subject to Senate approval or rejection.
- Leader on the world stage: Conducts diplomacy with other nations. Negotiates treaties, which the Senate must either ratify or reject. Appoints ambassadors and other key foreign affairs officials such as the secretary of state, subject to Senate approval or rejection.
- Political party leader: Coordinates with party members in Congress to advance a legislative agenda. Supports the election of members of the party and shapes the party’s broader messaging to the public.
- Ceremonial head of state: Delivers a State of the Union address to Congress.
- Commander in chief: Oversees the armed forces of the United States.
- Legislative power player: Proposes an annual budget, which sets out legislative priorities. Deploys the Veto (and veto threat) to shape policy.
- Architect of the federal judiciary: Appoints federal court judges and Supreme Court justices, subject to Senate approval/rejection.
- Defender of the Constitution: Takes an oath to remain faithful to the Constitution.
- Law enforcement: Appoints U.S. attorneys and key officials at the Department of Justice who prosecute those who violate national laws. Those appointments are subject to Senate approval or disapproval. Has the power to extend pardons or clemency for federal crimes.
- National security: Appoints key figures involved in national security decisions like the secretary of defense, the director of the Central Intelligence Agency, and the secretary of homeland security, subject to Senate approval or disapproval. Oversees their activities.
- Economic policy: Appoints key officials shaping economic policy, including the secretary of the Treasury and the chair of the Federal Reserve, subject to Senate approval or disapproval. Oversees their activities.
Qualifications
The president must be at least 35 years of age, be a natural-born citizen, and must have lived in the United States for at least 14 years.
