Randy Crockett, age 9, of Lansing, Mich., for his question:
WHAT WORK IS THE U.S. PRESIDENT REQUIRED TO DO?
Entering office, the President places his left hand on an open Bible, raises his right hand and takes this oath from the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court: "I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will faithfully execute the office of President of the United States, and will to the best of my ability preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States.''
Many important and difficult duties must be performed by the President of the United States on a regular schedule. His main job, however, is to preserve, protect and defend the Constitution.
As chief of state, it is necessary for the President to conduct many ceremonial affairs. He symbolizes the dignity and majesty of the American people. He receives important dignitaries and visiting chiefs of state at the White House and must also often travel to other countries on official visits. He bestows medals on our heroes, dedicates new parks and even throws out the first ball when a new baseball season opens.
As chief executive, he must take care that the laws are faithfully executed. He enforces various acts of Congress, judgments of federal courts and treaties. The President must interpret laws in applying them to specific situations.
The President must nominate members of the Cabinet, justices of the Supreme Court, ambassadors and many other high officials. His job also gives him emergency powers to end labor management conflicts that threaten the national safety or health. In addition, he shapes and determines policy, delegates authority and issues many executive orders.
The President is the one who directs the nation's foreign policy. He makes treaties with the approval of
Congress. He takes part in international conferences and deals with the diplomats of other nations.
As Commander in Chief, the President heads the armed forces. He may send the armed forces into situations that are equal to war. And he is also the custodian of the nation's nuclear weapons.
As the nation's legislative leader, the President must take an active role in influencing legislation. He must meet regularly with members of the House of Representatives and the Senate.
In addition, the President has policy making responsibilities as the leader of his political party.
Without question, the office of President of the United States is the most powerful elective office in the world. The President has great power because the United States is strong and also because the office he holds has a long tradition of success.
Presidents have always played important roles in shaping the developments of history.