American Government CLEP Prep Practice Exam

Which of the following is a power specifically granted to the President of the United States?

1. Declaring war.

2. Regulating commerce.

3. Establishing courts.

4. Pardoning individuals.

The correct answer is: Pardoning individuals.

A possible explanation for this answer would be that the power to pardon individuals is explicitly mentioned in the United States Constitution as a power that belongs solely to the President. None of the other options are mentioned as specific powers granted to the President in the Constitution. Additionally, declaring war is a power granted to Congress, not the President. Regulating commerce is also primarily the responsibility of Congress, with the President able to negotiate treaties related to commerce with foreign countries. Establishing courts is also primarily the responsibility of Congress, with the President able to nominate judges and justices, subject to Senate confirmation. In summary, option D is the correct answer because it is the only power explicitly stated in the Constitution as belonging solely to the President.