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Leaders in the Executive Branch
Case Studies
The President of the United States, the head of the executive branch, is the most visible leader in government. However, there are others in a president's administration who also serve in leadership roles, for example cabinet secretaries and other advisors who are experts in their respective fields. They advise and represent the president in domestic and foreign policy, and carry out the duties of the executive branch. At times, these leaders may face the special challenge of leading, while simultaneously following the directives of their boss, the President. Similarly, the nation's governors are the chief executives of their states and sometimes play a role on the national stage.
Use Discussion Questions to examine the leadership roles and qualities of presidents and cabinet members in public life.
HUD Secretary Mel Martinez [ Watch Clip | Questions ]
 As a 15-year old Cuban immigrant, unable to speak English, Mel Martinez began his life in America without his family and living in foster homes. He struggled with school, with his peers, and, in general, with life in a new country. However, Mel Martinez eventually found his outlet through baseball and, then, in school. Although, he was not a strong academic student, he was determined to stay in school and to excel. He eventually put himself through law school. As a bilingual lawyer he prided himself on being able to give back to his own Spanish-speaking community in Florida.
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[ Watch Clip | Questions ] Pentagon Spokesman Victoria Clarke
 As a leader and a "creature of public service," Pentagon Spokesman Victoria Clarke believes that openness and transparency are vital in government. In her opinion, American citizens should challenge themselves to be aware of events affecting their lives and the country as a whole; in turn, Victoria Clarke feels that people working in the government have an obligation to be straightforward and forthcoming with information.
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Governor Mark Warner [ Watch Clip | Questions ]
 Governor Mark Warner's path to leadership could be characterized by his perseverance—after several failures—in business and politics. Before becoming a successful businessman, he failed in two different endeavors in this field. After years in a private sector career, Mark Warner decided to pursue a career in politics and ran for one of Virginia's U.S. Senate seats; he lost. He then set out to campaign for the governor's seat, and won. Today, Mark Warner, as the 69th Governor of Virginia, sits at the head of his state's executive branch.
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