Article 2 Executive Branch

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Executive Branch

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The part of government led by the President that is responsible for enforcing and carrying out laws. This branch includes the President, Vice President, and all the departments and agencies that help run the country.

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Oath of Office

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A formal promise that the President (and other officials) must make before starting their job, swearing to protect the Constitution and do their duties faithfully. The President takes this oath during the inauguration ceremony.

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Executive Order

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An official command issued by the President that tells government agencies how to do their work. These orders have the power of law but don't require Congress's approval.

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Veto

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The President's power to reject a bill passed by Congress, preventing it from becoming a law. Congress can override a veto if two-thirds of both the House and Senate vote to do so.

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Impeachment

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The formal process where Congress charges a government official (like the President) with serious wrongdoing. If impeached by the House and convicted by the Senate, the official can be removed from office.

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POTUS

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An acronym that stands for "President of the United States." It's commonly used in news, by the Secret Service, and in casual conversation.

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Judicial Appointment

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When the President nominates someone to be a federal judge, including Supreme Court justices. The Senate must approve these appointments before the person can officially become a judge.

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Ratify

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To officially approve or confirm something, like a treaty or constitutional amendment. For treaties, the Senate must ratify them with a two-thirds vote before they become binding.

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Checks and Balances

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The system that gives each branch of government (Executive, Legislative, and Judicial) ways to limit the power of the other branches. This prevents any one branch from becoming too powerful.

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Commander-in-Chief

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The President's role as the highest-ranking leader of the United States military. In this role, the President makes major decisions about the armed forces and national defense.