As the head of state, the president acts as the highest living symbol of our country. When he welcomes Super Bowl champions to the White House or hosts an official dinner there, he is representing the nation. The president also engages with foreign leaders. His actions are expected to represent the nation’s top ideals and commitment to democracy. The president serves as the leader of his political party and plays a key role in shaping its positions on important issues. He helps raise money for the party and campaigns for members who have supported his policies and are running for office. Experts say that Barack Obama (2009-2017) reshaped the Democratic Party during his presidency.
Another crucial presidential task is maintaining America’s role as a world leader. A president sets the tone for the nation’s relationships with other governments. His goals and actions—including meeting with foreign leaders, often in tough negotiations—make up his foreign policy. For Donald Trump (2017-2021), a key foreign policy aim was to force China to change what he said were unfair trading practices with the U.S. Presidents also appoint ambassadors who represent the U.S. to foreign nations. What’s more, the president has the power to negotiate treaties—formal agreements with other countries. Treaties serve important functions, such as ending wars or promoting trade. Such agreements need Senate approval, however.
