IZZgov Unit 3 The Executive Branch

Which benefit is provided to the president at no cost?

• Pension of $191,300 per year

• Medical and dental coverage

• Travel allowance of $100,000 per year

• Official expense account of $50,000 per year

Answer explanation

The president receives medical and dental coverage at no cost, unlike the other benefits listed, which involve significant expenses or allowances.

What is the annual salary of the President of the United States?

• $50,000

• $100,000

• $191,300

• $400,000

Answer explanation

The annual salary of the President of the United States is $400,000, which is the correct choice among the options provided. This amount has been set since 2001.

What is one criticism of the Electoral College system?

• It always results in a tie

• The winner-take-all rule can allow a candidate to win the popular vote but lose the election

• Only Congress votes for the president

• It is based on a lottery system

Answer explanation

One major criticism of the Electoral College is the winner-take-all rule, which can lead to a situation where a candidate wins the popular vote nationwide but still loses the election due to how electoral votes are allocated.

What is a potential effect of a strong third-party candidate in the Electoral College?

• They always win the presidency

• They can force major party candidates to bargain for support

• They are not allowed to participate

• They automatically become vice president

Answer explanation

A strong third-party candidate can influence the major parties by drawing votes away from them, compelling them to negotiate and address issues important to their supporters in order to secure their backing.

On what date does the president of the United States take office following the November election?

• January 1

• January 20

• December 25

• February 1

Answer explanation

The president of the United States takes office on January 20 following the November election, as established by the 20th Amendment to the Constitution.

Why has the influence of the president’s cabinet varied over time?

• Changes in the number of departments

• Reliance on other advisers in crises

• Senate confirmation rules

• Media coverage

Answer explanation

The influence of the president's cabinet has varied due to reliance on other advisers during crises, as presidents often seek specialized input in urgent situations, which can diminish the cabinet's role.

What is a key responsibility of the Council of Economic Advisers?

• Handle press relations

• Assess economic health and assist in economic planning

• Oversee military operations

• Approve cabinet nominees

Answer explanation

A key responsibility of the Council of Economic Advisers is to assess economic health and assist in economic planning, providing the President with informed advice on economic policy.

Which of the following is NOT one of the four main expectations the Founders had for the national executive?

• Enforce laws

• Respond quickly to problems

• Make treaties without Senate approval

• Hold the legislative branch in check

Answer explanation

The Founders expected the national executive to enforce laws, respond quickly to problems, and hold the legislative branch in check. However, they required Senate approval for treaties, making 'Make treaties without Senate approval' the correct choice.

Which of the following actions can the president take regarding money appropriated by Congress?

• Only spend as directed

• Impound, or refuse to spend, the money

• Increase the amount without approval

• Give it to the Supreme Court

Answer explanation

The president can impound, or refuse to spend, money appropriated by Congress, which allows for discretion in budget management. The other options are not permissible actions.

What is the difference between a reprieve and a pardon?

• A reprieve is for groups; a pardon is for individuals

• A reprieve postpones punishment; a pardon releases from punishment

• A reprieve is for minor crimes; a pardon is for major crimes

• A reprieve is given by Congress; a pardon by the president

Answer explanation

A reprieve temporarily delays punishment, while a pardon completely absolves an individual from it. Thus, the correct choice highlights this key distinction between the two terms.