Unanticipated Responsibilities Held by the American Head of State
In the public eye, the U.S. President is often associated with traditional roles such as commander-in-chief and chief legislator. However, the responsibilities of this office extend far beyond these duties, encompassing a wide array of tasks that are sometimes surprising and less well-known.
One such responsibility is the President's direct involvement in individual business affairs. This can range from influencing corporate leadership decisions to negotiating unusual financial arrangements between companies and foreign governments. While this is not typical for presidents, it is a role that has been exercised, sometimes controversially [1].
Another unexpected duty is the issuing of executive orders. These orders not only manage federal operations but also impact trade policies and national security. Presidents often invoke broad legal authorities to address complex economic and international issues [3][5].
Moreover, the President plays a key role in organizing and promoting major cultural and national events. For instance, the President has been involved in planning the celebrations for the 250th anniversary of the country, which involved coordinating public spaces and community improvements in Washington D.C. [4].
Historically, presidents have also been burdened with unique personal or symbolic duties. These can range from being the first to undertake certain travels while in office to participating in unusual White House traditions. For example, President Coolidge was known for riding an electronic horse [2].
A more familiar tradition is the President's role in lighting the National Christmas Tree, a beloved annual event that dates back to 1923. The ceremony often includes performances by renowned musicians, holiday readings, and appearances by prominent public figures.
The President's role extends to more tangible symbols of the office as well. The President has the authority to approve commemorative coin programs, which honor significant events, individuals, and anniversaries, and serve dual purposes: celebrating history and raising funds for meaningful causes.
In a more personal touch, U.S. Presidents have the unique right to create personalized versions of the Presidential Seal for private use. This customization can be seen in various items, such as President Obama's commemorative basketballs given to visiting dignitaries, reflecting his well-known love for the sport [6].
When a U.S. territory transitions to statehood, the President plays a surprising role in approving its flag and seal to ensure they reflect American values and ideals. A notable example of this is President Eisenhower's approval of Alaska's state flag, famously designed by 13-year-old Benny Benson in 1959 [7].
However, the use of personalized seals has not always been without controversy. President Trump's customized seal was prominently displayed on golf apparel sold at his resorts, drawing both attention and criticism for its commercial use [8].
These responsibilities reveal how the President's role can encompass unexpected economic interventions, extensive executive management through orders, cultural leadership, and sometimes quirky personal engagements that are not widely recognized as part of the office.
The top 10 responsibilities of a U.S. President might include influencing business affairs, issuing executive orders, organizing national events, managing unique personal or symbolic duties, lighting the National Christmas Tree, approving commemorative coin programs, creating personalized versions of the Presidential Seal, approving new state flags and seals, and engaging in quirky personal engagements that are less well-known. The history of U.S. Presidents has been marked by unexpected duties, extending far beyond the traditional roles of commander-in-chief and chief legislator.
