Presidential powers

Definition

Presidential powers are the constitutional and informal authorities granted to the president. These include signing or vetoing legislation, commanding the military, issuing executive orders, negotiating treaties, and appointing federal judges and cabinet members.

Examples

  • The president can veto a bill passed by Congress, requiring a two-thirds override vote
  • Executive orders like Truman's desegregation of the military in 1948 bypass the legislative process
  • The president nominates Supreme Court justices, subject to Senate confirmation
Key Fact

The president's veto can be overridden by a two-thirds vote in both the House and Senate.

Related Terms

Presidency Checks and balances Congress Cabinet departments

Study This Concept

Practice presidential powers with free review games in these units:

U.S. Government Unit 4: The Executive Branch