Qualifications for the US Presidency
Qualifications and Expectations for the U.S. Presidency
Constitutional Qualifications
- The Constitution outlines three basic qualifications to become President of the United States:
- Must be at least 35 years old.
- Must be a natural-born citizen of the U.S.
- Must have lived in the U.S. for at least 14 years.
Informal Qualifications
- Beyond constitutional requirements, there are informal qualifications that Americans often look for in presidential candidates:
- Good character is paramount; candidates with scandals may be overlooked.
Importance of Values and Education
- Moral integrity and values play a significant role in presidential campaigns, influencing public perception and support.
- While no educational requirement exists, most presidents have been college educated, frequently from prestigious institutions like Ivy League schools.
Political Experience
- Previous political experience is advantageous; many presidents were governors (17) or senators (15) before taking office.
- Political moderates tend to perform better in elections as they appeal to a broader voter base.
Military Background and Wealth
- Military experience is common among presidents; historically, it has been viewed as an important attribute due to the president's role as commander-in-chief.
- Wealth is prevalent among presidential candidates, facilitating campaign funding and political influence. Early presidents were often among the wealthiest individuals in their time.