Roles of the President

Chief Executive

The President
- enforces U.S. laws
- creates policies
- hires and fires officials within the executive branch
- appoints federal (national) judges.

Commander in Chief

The president is the head of the nation's military forces but can not declare war.

Chief of State

The President is a living symbol of the U.S. This job includes mostly ceremonial duties, such as
welcoming foreign leaders, congratulating famous
Americans, and promoting U.S. traditions.

Foreign Policy Chief

The Constitution says that only the President can make treaties with other countries (although the Senate must approve them).

Political Party Leader

The President is head of his political party. He uses his influence to back party candidates, raise money for campaigns, and appoint party officials

Chief Legislator

The President works with Congress to create and pass laws.

President Richard
M. Nixon visits
China to improve
relations with that
country.

Foreign Policy Leader

President Ronald
Reagan campaigns
for fellow Republicans
running for
Congress.

Political Party Leader

President George
H.W. Bush entertains
the Queen of
England at the
White House.

Chief of State

President John F.
Kennedy issues an
Executive Order to
launch the Peace
Corps.

Chief Executive

President George
W. Bush sends U.S.
combat troops to
Iraq.

Commander in Chief

President Barack Obama works with Congress to pass a law about healthcare.

Chief Legistator