According to Article II of the Constitution the President has the following powers: Serve as commander in chief of the armed forces Commission officers of the armed forces Grant reprieves and pardons for federal offenses (except impeachment) Convene Congress in special sessions Receive ambassadors Take care that the laws be faithfully executed Wield the "executive power" Appoint Cabinet officials, White House staff and Supreme Court justices Powers of the President That Are Shared with the Senate Make treaties Appoint ambassadors, Cabinet members and Supreme Court justices Powers of the President That are Shared with Congress as a Whole Approve legislation