Formal and informal powers of the US president | US government and civics | Khan Academy

Summary

This video discusses the formal and informal powers of the President of the United States as outlined in Article II of the Constitution. It highlights formal powers such as being Commander in Chief, the authority to appoint officials with Senate consent, and the ability to grant pardons. Additionally, it introduces informal powers like executive orders and signing statements, which allow the President to influence legislation and policy. The video sets the stage for deeper exploration of these powers in future discussions, emphasizing the President's role in shaping national governance and diplomacy.

Takeaways

• 😀 The powers of the U.S. President are divided into formal and informal categories.
• 😀 Formal powers are explicitly listed in Article II of the U.S. Constitution.
• 😀 The President is the Commander in Chief of the military, a key military power.
• 😀 The President can grant reprieves and pardons for federal offenses, which is a judicial power.
• 😀 Treaties require the Senate's advice and consent, showcasing a foreign policy power.
• 😀 The President has the power to appoint officials, including judges and ambassadors, with Senate approval.
• 😀 Legislative powers include presenting the State of the Union and recommending legislation.
• 😀 The President can convene and adjourn Congress under certain circumstances.
• 😀 Informal powers, such as executive orders and signing statements, derive from formal powers.
• 😀 Executive agreements with foreign governments do not require Senate ratification, unlike treaties.

Q & A

What are the two main categories of presidential powers discussed in the video?

The two main categories are formal powers, which are explicitly listed in the Constitution, and informal powers, which are derived from the President's role and actions.

Where are the formal powers of the President outlined?

The formal powers are outlined in Article II of the United States Constitution.

What is one of the President's primary roles as outlined in Section 1 of Article II?

The President serves as the executive power vested in the office, which means they run the government.

What military power is granted to the President in Section 2?

The President is designated as the Commander in Chief of the Army and Navy of the United States.

How can the President influence legislation according to the script?

The President can influence legislation by presenting information on the State of the Union, recommending measures to Congress, and convening both houses on extraordinary occasions.

What judicial power does the President hold?

The President has the power to grant reprieves and pardons for offenses against the United States, except in cases of impeachment.

What is the significance of the President's power to make treaties?

The President can make treaties with foreign nations, but these treaties must be ratified by a two-thirds majority of the Senate.

What is an executive order and how is it related to the President's formal powers?

An executive order is an informal power that allows the President to direct how laws are enforced, derived from the formal powers to ensure laws are faithfully executed.

What are signing statements and why are they important?

Signing statements are documents issued by the President when signing a bill into law, providing interpretation and context for the law, which can significantly influence its implementation.

What is the difference between treaties and executive agreements?

Treaties require Senate ratification, while executive agreements can be made by the President with foreign governments without needing Senate approval.