The President is an influential leader in our society. He is the only person that has been given individual rights over the government by the Constitution. As a nationally elected official, the President must represent everyone. It is precisely because he is the only member of the government to do so that the President has such profound influence.

Specifically, presidents are entrusted with handling foreign affairs, stimulating legislation, commanding the army, and being an iconic figure for the American government. He/she handles each of these duties with the help of a strong cabinet and Executive branch. In the next chapter about the Bureaucracy, you will find out more on this topic.

In handling foreign affairs, the President often chooses whom to make allies with. He can execute different types of agreements with foreign powers with and without the approval of Congress.

The President also works with Congress to create laws. Although, he is responsible for executing the laws, the president also inputs his ideas to the Legislature (State of the Union) and has been given the power to veto laws that he disagrees with. This forces a close connection between the Executive and the Legislature.

As Commander in Chief, the president has to govern our armies. During times of war, such duties can become quite significant, as presidents have historically consumed more power.

Finally, the president is the person who embodies the American identity. He must fulfill that role to the fullest degree, whether through direct connections with the people or speeches to the whole world.

As the president becomes a more publicized figure, his power and influence also increase. We are seeing that in front of our very eyes. From the humble beginnings of George Washington to the raucous entrance of Barack Obama, the presidency has hardly been a static position. And it will continue to be high-octane job for years to come.

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