Constitution

Definition

A constitution is a fundamental set of principles and established precedents that outline the governance and legal framework of a political entity. In the context of the American Presidency, the Constitution serves as the supreme law, detailing the powers, responsibilities, and limitations of the executive branch, specifically the presidency, while ensuring checks and balances with the other branches of government.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Constitution was drafted in 1787 during the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia and ratified by the states in 1788.
2. It establishes the presidency in Article II, outlining the powers granted to the executive branch, including the authority to enforce laws, conduct foreign policy, and act as commander-in-chief of the armed forces.
3. The Constitution includes provisions for impeachment, allowing Congress to remove a president from office for 'high crimes and misdemeanors'.
4. Amendments to the Constitution can be proposed by a two-thirds vote in both houses of Congress or by a national convention called by two-thirds of state legislatures.
5. The Constitution has been amended 27 times, reflecting changes in societal values and norms over more than two centuries.

Review Questions

• How does the Constitution define the powers and responsibilities of the presidency?
  • The Constitution defines the presidency through Article II, detailing specific powers such as executing federal laws, conducting foreign affairs, and serving as commander-in-chief of the armed forces. Additionally, it outlines responsibilities like appointing federal officers and ensuring that laws are faithfully executed. This framework provides clarity on what is expected from the executive branch while also establishing boundaries to prevent abuse of power.
• Discuss how the concept of checks and balances is reflected in the Constitution with regard to presidential power.
  • The Constitution incorporates checks and balances by allowing each branch of government to limit the powers of the others. For instance, while the president can veto legislation passed by Congress, Congress can override this veto with a two-thirds majority vote. Additionally, the Senate must confirm presidential appointments and ratify treaties. This system ensures that no single branch can dominate government functions, maintaining a balance of power and protecting against tyranny.
• Evaluate how amendments to the Constitution have impacted presidential authority and governance throughout American history.
  • Amendments to the Constitution have significantly shaped presidential authority by expanding or limiting powers in response to societal needs. For example, the 12th Amendment changed how electoral votes are cast for president and vice president, reducing potential electoral conflicts. The 25th Amendment clarifies succession procedures and presidential disability. Such changes demonstrate how constitutional amendments reflect evolving political realities and public expectations of presidential governance, illustrating an ongoing dialogue between past frameworks and contemporary demands.

Related terms

Separation of Powers:

The division of government responsibilities into distinct branches to prevent any one branch from exercising the core functions of another, ensuring a system of checks and balances.

Bill of Rights: The first ten amendments to the Constitution, which guarantee individual rights and liberties against government infringement.

Federalism: A system of governance in which power is divided between a central authority and constituent political units, allowing for a balance between national and state powers.