Discuss the relationship of presidential power to public support for the president, and explain why this relationship is both an asset and a liability for the president.

What will be an ideal response?


The president's election by the whole nation and his/her position as sole chief executive makes the presidential office the primary focus of Americans' policy and leadership expectations. In turn, public support gives force to presidential leadership. Public support of the president is typically highest during the first months in office. Because the public expects so much of the president, the president cannot always meet the public's expectations. Many conditions can lead to a decline in public support, and with that, a weakening of the president's claim to lead Congress and others. On the other hand, when national conditions are favorable, the president gets a disproportionate share of the credit from the American people, which gives added strength to the president's efforts. Economic conditions in particular make a huge difference on the level of public support for the president.

Political Science

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Political Science