Question

Which of the following is an accurate comparison of actions taken by the president that best represents the formal and informal powers of the presidency?

A. Formal Power: The president issues an executive order to implement a policy.
Informal Power: The president delivers a nationally televised address to garner public support for a legislative agenda.
B. Formal Power: The president attends a diplomatic summit to negotiate treaties.
Informal Power: The president appoints a close friend to a key advisory position without Senate approval.
C. Formal Power: The president meets with congressional leaders to discuss proposed legislation.
Informal Power: The president uses social media to communicate directly with the public and shape public opinion.
D. Formal Power: The president pardons individuals convicted of federal crimes.
Informal Power: The president privately influences Supreme Court justices to rule in a specific way on a case.

Answer 1

The most accurate comparison of the formal and informal powers of the presidency from the options provided is option A, where issuing an executive order is a formal power and delivering a nationally televised address to influence public opinion is an informal power.

Step-by-step explanation:

To best represent the formal and informal powers of the presidency, one must understand what actions fall under each category. Formal powers include actions such as issuing executive orders, which have the force of law and do not require congressional approval, appointing officials who require Senate confirmation, and convening national assemblies on specific issues. Informal powers manifest themselves in the president's ability to influence public opinion and policy through means that are not codified by law, such as speaking to the nation, using the 'bully pulpit,' and making policy recommendations.

Looking at the options provided:

• The president issuing an executive order is an example of exercising a formal power, as it involves direct action through the institutional powers of the office.
• A nationally televised address to garner public support is an example of an informal power, representing the president's ability to persuade and shape public opinion.

Therefore, the most accurate comparison in the provided options would be:

A. Formal Power: The president issues an executive order to implement a policy.
Informal Power: The president delivers a nationally televised address to garner public support for a legislative agenda.