The power of the executive branch is vested in the President, who also serves as Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces. The President appoints the Cabinet and oversees the various agencies and departments of the federal government.
In order for a person to become President, he or she must be a natural-born citizen of the United States, be at least 35 years of age, and have resided in the United States for at least 14 years. Once elected, the President serves a term of four years and may be re-elected only once.
Each day the President talks with advisors and experts so that he can be
well informed about the many important issues that affect our nation. For
example, he discusses domestic policy and current events with members of
Congress, his Cabinet, and staff; meets with heads of state and foreign
dignitaries to advance international understanding; and sees many
visitors who have been invited to the White House to offer their advice.
Being
President also involves a great deal of travel, both around the
world and within the United States. One of President Clinton's greatest
joys is meeting Americans in their neighborhoods and communities and
learning about their lives. When he is working at the White House,
President Clinton tries to stay in close touch with the American people
through weekly radio addresses, by holding press conferences, and by
working with his staff to answer his mail.
Being President is both challenging and rewarding. President Clinton
encourages all young people who want to enter public service to do their
best in school, to become informed about current events, and to reach out
to help people in their communities. Being an elected official means
considering the needs of our country's citizens and having a plan for
positive change.