ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book examines the issues and theories of presidential power, that is, the ability of a president to attain political and policy goals. It explores the quick rise of political parties, and how that put a major wrench in the Framers' ideas on how selection of a president should work and how Congress and the presidency should operate and interact. The book explores why the exercise of constitutional powers remains important to presidents. It focuses on public appeals and public support as a source of power. It looks at how the ever- changing media pose significant challenges to presidents. The book discusses the historical factors that might affect the exercise and analysis of presidential power. It also focuses on the internal rhythms of the second term, when presidents often seem to be especially bedeviled and politically weakened.
