Executive Command

7.4 Assignment: Executive Command

Directions
Use the information provided in this assignment to describe the seven presidential roles, the
qualities of presidential leadership, and which one of the seven roles you believe to be the most
difficult or most important to accomplish and why.

• Paste the screen shot of your Executive Command Certificate here.

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Big Questions
Carefully analyze the information from your experience during the Executive Command game
and answer these three questions. Support your analysis with concrete and specific examples
from your game experience.

• How does the president work with the multiple branches of government to complete
the tasks or responsibilities required for each of the seven roles? (first paragraph)
In the Executive Command game, the president must navigate a complex landscape of
interactions with the legislative, judicial, and executive branches to fulfill their responsibilities
across the seven roles. For instance, when acting as Chief Legislator, the president proposes bills
and works closely with Congress to pass legislation. This requires negotiation and compromise,
as seen when the president must lobby for support from both houses, address concerns from
various lawmakers, and sometimes even deal with filibusters or veto overrides. As Commander
in Chief, the president coordinates with military leaders and often requires Congressional
approval for extended military engagements, demonstrating the need for collaboration and
adherence to legal frameworks established by the judiciary. In the role of Chief Diplomat, the
president negotiates treaties that require Senate ratification, reflecting the interdependence
with the legislative branch. Each role necessitates a unique approach to working with different
branches, highlighting the president's need to be a versatile and strategic leader.

• Which of the president’s seven roles is the most difficult or most important to
accomplish and why? (second paragraph)
Among the seven roles, the most difficult and arguably the most important is the Chief Legislator. This role involves
not only proposing and advocating for new laws but also managing the complex dynamics of Congress. The president
must build coalitions, navigate partisanship, and respond to the interests of various constituencies. The difficulty is
compounded by the need to balance immediate political pressures with long-term policy goals. For example, during
the game, pushing a major healthcare reform bill required extensive negotiation, strategic concessions, and
sometimes, the sacrifice of certain provisions to ensure passage. The legislative process is intricate and often slow-
moving, demanding persistent effort and keen political acumen. This role is crucial because it shapes the legislative
agenda and, ultimately, the nation's policy direction, impacting everything from economic stability to social justice.
• Which of the six essential leadership characteristics are the most important for a
president to be successful and why? (third paragraph)
Out of the six essential leadership characteristics, decision-making and communication stand
out as the most important for a president's success. Decision-making is critical because the
president is constantly faced with complex issues that require timely and effective resolutions,
such as responding to national security threats or economic crises. The ability to make sound
decisions under pressure can determine the success or failure of a presidency. Communication is
equally vital, as it enables the president to articulate policies, inspire public confidence, and
persuade both lawmakers and citizens. Effective communication fosters transparency, builds
trust, and can mobilize public opinion to support the president's agenda. For example, during the
game, clearly communicating the benefits of a proposed policy helped garner public and
congressional support, demonstrating how these characteristics are interlinked and essential for
navigating the multifaceted responsibilities of the presidency.