Which statement describes how presidents gauge success with legislation in Congress?

• A. Never reveal their position on noncontroversial bills
• B. Can keep their victory score high by not taking a position on any controversial measure
• C. Do not have the power to veto bills passed by Congress
• D. Do not have the ability to show their approval or disapproval since they must not sign bills before they can become law

Answer: (B)

Presidents measure success by how much of their policy agenda becomes law, and a key way to maximize that is to avoid taking public stances on every controversial bill. By staying out of the crossfire on contentious measures, they reduce political risk, keep lawmakers from being forced into hard votes, and create room for compromise. When bills aligned with the administration’s goals finally pass and reach the president, they can sign them into law and advertise those wins, keeping their perceived success high even as the political climate stays tight.

The other ideas don’t fit as well. Presidents routinely take positions on many bills, including noncontroversial ones, and they do have the power to sign or veto legislation as a clear signal of approval or disapproval.