Section 10

The Presidency

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Readings: Chapter 14.

The President may be a very important participant in the play of power, but only one among several players. Presidential influence is heavily dependent on the institution built around the individual. Much of the work for which the president receives blame or credit is done by the president's staff.  In spite of the President's dependence upon the institution, presidential success is contingent upon the individual who holds the office. Zen.

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Your Name

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10.1  What roles are performed by the Chief of Staff? Which contribute most to this position's power within the white House Office?      

10.2  In which ways are the White House staff different from the cabinet? Which are more influential in the White House's internal play of power?      

10.3  Which resources are granted to the President by the Constitution?    

10.4  Which resources not granted by the Constitution have been assumed by presidents?

10.5  Which of the following statements (more than one) reflects the authors' views on the ability of presidents to influence major legislation?      

Presidential success is greatest early in the administration.

As the chief legislator, the successful presidents determine the course of all major policy changes.

Presidents influence policy change at the margins.

Presidents are almost completely dominated by the constitutional prerogatives of Congress.

Negotiation and bargaining are major strategies for presidential success in shaping policy changes.

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10.6    Opinion     Given what you have learned in this chapter, how would you evaluate President Clinton's performance to this point? Think about the things you have learned in this chapter and try to be as objective as possible regardless of you personal like or dislike of President Clinton.

Questions or Comments? send e-mail to Dr. Werner at drblw@aol.com

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