Which presidential power is not explicitly granted in the Constitution?

The power to issue executive orders is not explicitly mentioned in the Constitution, which is why it is considered the correct answer in this context. While the Constitution does outline several powers of the President, the authority to issue executive orders has emerged from the President's obligation to ensure that laws are faithfully executed. This power has been interpreted through various legal precedents and has become a standard practice for Presidents to manage the operations of the executive branch without requiring explicit constitutional language.

In contrast, the other powers listed are explicitly stated in the Constitution. For example, appointing ambassadors is provided for in Article II, Section 2, which grants the President the authority to nominate ambassadors, with the advice and consent of the Senate. The power to grant reprieves and pardons is also found within the same section, allowing the President to relieve individual legal penalties. The ability to convene Congress is outlined in Article II, Section 3, which states that the President may, on extraordinary occasions, convene both Houses of Congress.

Each of these powers has a clear constitutional foundation, distinguishing them from the practice of issuing executive orders, which has evolved over time as part of the executive function but is not directly articulated in the text of the Constitution.