Chapter 11 Essay Questions

You have previously been assigned ONE of the following essay questions. Prepare your response, following the designated INSTRUCTIONS.

1.  Commentators on the presidency often refer to it as a "bully pulpit," implying that presidents can persuade or even mobilize the public to support their policies if only they are skilled enough communicators.  Discuss the skills that are needed to make a president an effective communicator.  How has the concept of the "bully pulpit" changed since Theodore Roosevelt referred to the idea?

2.  It is often said that American people are ideologically conservative and operationally liberal.  Explain fully why voters choose presidents and congresses that appear to reflect different policy positions.  Is this a negative or a positive factor of the American form of government?

3.  Explain the power relationship between the president and Congress.  How does the president's political party and public support affect this relationship?

4.  Why is the president given the power as the nation's chief diplomat and the commander in chief of the armed forces?  What checks does Congress have on the president's national security prerogatives?  Are these checks sufficient? Explain.

5.  Describe the nature of the "public" presidency."  How does public opinion affect the power of the president and how can presidents gain and use public support to their advantage?

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Chief Justice Richard Barajas
Advanced Placement U.S. Government and Politics
Cathedral High School, El Paso, Texas
Last updated: April 2002