World
November 6, 2024 05:20
united states - Ever wondered how much money the President of the United States earns and what perks come with the job? Read on to find out!
The President of the United States is often referred to as the 'most powerful person in the world'. But how much power does this title really hold? And how much does the President earn for it?
As Vice President, Kamala Harris earns nearly 18,000 euros per month, and as an ex-President, Donald Trump is entitled to a lifelong allowance of 15,000 euros per month. When serving as the President, they receive a monthly salary of around 30,000 euros, along with a range of expense allowances. The only countries where a government leader earns more are Brunei, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Switzerland.
In 2001, the American President received a salary increase for the last time, which was a doubling of the previous amount.
Barack Obama described flying in Air Force One as 'pretty cool'. It is a private plane that is available 24/7 and can refuel in the air to fly anywhere. This is just one of the perks a President enjoys. For shorter trips, a helicopter and an armored limousine are also available.
The President resides rent-free in the White House, where the office is located. To ensure smooth operations within the House, there are ninety staff members, including gardeners, carpenters, chefs, a florist, physiotherapist, and a pastry chef.
The President of the United States not only serves as the political leader but also fulfills various ceremonial duties such as attending debates in parliament, meeting with foreign heads of state, and holding meetings in the West Wing.
Despite being often seen as equivalent to a royal family by Americans, the President does not have absolute power. The judicial power lies with the Supreme Court, and the legislative power rests with the Congress, maintaining a system of 'checks and balances'.
Simultaneous elections of representatives and senators are crucial since a Republican President prefers a predominantly Republican parliament and senate, while a Democratic President hopes for a Democratic majority to ease decision-making processes.
The President can significantly influence the country by appointing federal judges and selecting Supreme Court members for life. These appointed judges can continue to represent the President's ideologies long after their term ends.
The President of the US serves as the 'commander in chief', overseeing the largest military budget globally. While the President cannot officially declare war on another country, they have the authority to decide unilaterally to send bombers or troops. The President carries the 'nuclear football' at all times, containing codes required to launch nuclear weapons.
The US debates revising the sole authority of the President for nuclear launches, questioning the safety of allowing a nuclear attack without Presidential approval, particularly amidst threats from other global powers.
The President cannot launch unilaterally, as the Minister of Defense requires the President's authorization, and military personnel reserve the right to refuse orders deemed unlawful.
Although believed to be the 'most powerful person in the world', the American President's influence is challenged by the Chinese President's authority, as noted by Forbes. Nevertheless, the US President still holds significant influence globally, especially in key diplomatic relations and global decision-making processes.