PSAT Writing and Language Practice Test 52: President

Questions 1-11 refer to the following information.

President

{1}

The first three articles of a 1789 document—formally known as the United States Constitution—delineate the separation of powers 1 in the core of American democracy. Divided into three branches, the federal government assigns law making to the legislative, law enforcing to the executive, and law interpreting to the judicial system. 2 The separation of powers doctrine largely originated with the ideas of the French political philosopher, Baron de Montesquieu. The President of the United States is the nucleus of the Executive Branch, serving as both Head of State and Commander in Chief, and is the most prominent figure of American government. 3 Thus, if one's career goals involve establishing oneself as one of the most important and well-known people in the world, then running for the national presidency makes a great deal of sense.

{2}

[1] The requirements are pretty straightforward: one must be a natural-born citizen who 4 is at least the age of 35 years and for at least the duration of 14 years resided in the United States. [2] What it actually takes, however, is labyrinthine. [3] At the forefront of a successful campaign for presidency 5 lie charisma. [4] One's public image must be maintained with a skeleton-free closet and consistent political views—nothing sabotages a presidential campaign like scandal or irregularity. [5] Even then, a likely candidate should endeavor to appeal to average Americans, appearing in churches and small businesses often and visiting frequently with veterans, blue-collar workers, and farmers. [6] Personal military experience never hurt anyone either. 6

{3}

7 Past presidents' age ranges from 44 (John F. Kennedy) to 76 (Ronald Reagan) but average at about 55 years old. U.S. presidents tend to be married with children and hold advanced degrees in law or business from elite universities. Most candidates possess resumes boasting of years in public service and political positions; the fast track to presidential candidacy comprises elected posts like mayor, governor, and senator. 8 Still allure, a spotless background, and years in diplomatic service are a dime a dozen in presidential races. One needs money, and plenty of it, to run for the presidency.

{4}

Even after an exploratory committee predicts success and a potential candidate registers with the Federal Election Commission, one has to win support in a caucus, triumph in a primary, 9 following an earning nationally in a convention, and raise millions of dollars in funds before the general election. 10 Surprisingly, the Washington Post reported that both presidential candidates in 2012, Barack Obama and Mitt Romney, raised over $1 billion each to run their campaigns. Thinking of the White House as a future residence? Work on that billion-dollar smile. 11