Presidential Powers 2: Crash Course Government and Politics #12

Introduction to Informal Powers00:00:00

Craig introduces the concept that while the President has limited expressed powers in the Constitution, they possess informal powers implied by the text or inherent to the office.

Commander in Chief and War Powers00:01:13

The video explains the President's power as Commander in Chief, including the ability to deploy troops without a formal declaration of war and the limited effectiveness of the War Powers Resolution.

Foreign Policy and Executive Agreements00:02:42

Craig discusses how Presidents use executive agreements instead of formal treaties to bypass the Senate's two-thirds ratification requirement, citing examples like NAFTA.

Chief Executive and Legislative Role00:03:18

This section covers the President's role as CEO, directing cabinet secretaries to implement laws, setting the legislative agenda, and drafting legislation for Congress.

Executive Orders and Impoundment00:05:19

Craig explains executive orders as unilateral directives with the force of law, the practice of impounding funds, and mentions policies like the creation of the EPA.

Executive Privilege and Conclusion00:06:02

The final section defines executive privilege, references the U.S. vs. Nixon case, and concludes that presidential power often expands through initiative and Congressional deference.