Powers of the President of Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory; its head of government is the Governor, not a President. The President of the United States is the head of state. However, if referring to a hypothetical or historical presidential role, the listed powers resemble a presidential system:

• Chief executive, head of executive branch
• Commander-in-chief of National Guard
• Veto legislation
• Appoint/remove agency heads
• Treaty negotiation (with Senate approval)
• Pardon/commute sentences
• Declare martial law/emergency
• Call special legislative sessions
• Appoint judges
• Issue executive orders
• Mobilize National Guard
• Federal agreements
• International representation (limited)

Actual governance: The Governor (elected) holds executive power under the Puerto Rico Constitution; U.S. Congress retains ultimate authority.