The President of the United States is the chief executive of the government. The President, along with the Vice President, leads a staff of Cabinet ministers and heads several independent federal agencies that have a wide range of missions and duties, including the Department of Defense, the Environmental Protection Agency and the Securities and Exchange Commission. As commander in chief of the armed forces, the President also oversees military operations and international relations.
The president must be able to inspire the people and make tough decisions. The ideal president is confident, knowledgeable and has the ability to communicate effectively. In addition to these qualities, a great leader must be empathetic and charismatic.
In the modern world, presidents often have more power than state government officials and are widely viewed as global leaders. During the 20th century, with the emergence of the United States as a superpower and its role in shaping relationships with other countries and international organizations, it became increasingly important for the President to be a strong activist who could mobilize the nation in response to a crisis.
The president makes treaties with foreign governments and serves as the commander in chief of the armed forces. In addition, the President appoints people to head the major departments of the government (the cabinet). The president is bound by law to consult with these leaders, but they are not members of the legislature. The President also appoints judges to the Supreme Court and lower federal courts around the country.