A President should possess leadership skills, be knowledgeable about the nation’s problems and offer solutions. A successful leader should be a confident communicator, both in public and private settings. The President must have the relationship and political acumen to position Montclair State University effectively and positively with civic, business and legislative leaders.
The most important power a President has is the power to shape and convince the U.S. public on particular issues. Abraham Lincoln was able to do this during the Civil War when he won overwhelming public support for his cause.
Similarly, Franklin Roosevelt’s and Lyndon Johnson’s legislative achievements are largely linked to their ability to rally the public behind their proposals for social programs. This type of presidential advocacy is inextricably connected to the success of the President’s political party and the results of elections.
The President is also the foremost and most empowered defender of the Constitution (Article 60). This gives him the power to nullify any unconstitutional actions by executive or legislature entities of the government. However, the President does not enjoy immunity from judicial prosecution/punishment for activities undertaken during his term. He can be charged with a crime by either house of the parliament with a two-thirds majority. Chief justices/judges of the Supreme Court can also be punished by the judiciary for incompetence or mala fides. In addition, a President can be removed from office by impeachment. This is a rare event, as it requires a vote of no confidence by both houses of the Congress.