• Is the head of the executive branch

• Is Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces

• May pardon people for crimes

• May veto bills

• May call special sessions of Congress

• Must enforce laws that Congress makes

• May appoint people to government office

• May make treaties with foreign countries

Often called the Chief Executive, the President is responsible for carrying out the laws of the country. As such, he or she is involved in all areas of government. The President influences legislation (laws) and recommends how the government’s money should be raised and spent (federal budget).

Many of the President’s actions must first have the approval of the Senate. Both Congress and the Supreme Court check and balance the President’s power, so that the executive branch does not become too powerful. Congress can limit the President’s ability to carry out a law. The Senate can refuse to approve the President’s appointments to government offices. The Supreme Court can declare any of the President’s actions unconstitutional. On the other hand, the President also has the right to veto a law that Congress passes (unless Congress passes it again by a 2/3 majority). This system of checks and balances protects our democracy. It ensures that no single branch of government has all the power.