The US Presidency

The presidency is established by Article II of the US Constitution and is the focal point of the American political system. The President serves as both head of state and head of government - a dual role that contrasts with the UK, where these functions are split between the monarch and the Prime Minister. For Edexcel A-Level Politics, understanding presidential powers, their limits, and the ongoing debate about presidential authority is crucial.

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Constitutional Powers (Article II)

The Constitution grants the President several explicit powers:

Executive Powers

• Enforce federal laws - "take Care that the Laws be faithfully executed"
• Appoint Cabinet members, federal judges, ambassadors, and other officials (with Senate confirmation)
• Remove executive branch officials
• Issue executive orders - directives that carry the force of law

Military Powers

• Commander-in-chief of the armed forces
• Direct military operations (though only Congress can formally declare war)

Diplomatic Powers

• Negotiate treaties (requiring two-thirds Senate ratification)
• Executive agreements with foreign nations (do not require Senate approval)
• Receive ambassadors and recognise foreign governments