What is the difference between formal and informal powers?

• A. There is no difference
• B. Formal powers come from constitution or law; informal powers come from influence and leadership.
• C. Informal powers come from money and wealth
• D. Formal powers are ceremonial and informal powers are legal

Answer: (B)

The difference is where the power comes from. Formal powers come from the Constitution or laws and are explicit duties the government assigns to the leader, such as vetoing legislation, nominating officials, and granting pardons. These powers are defined and limited by legal authority. Informal powers come from the leader’s influence and ability to persuade others—through leadership, public popularity, party influence, and communication—rather than from written duties. They include shaping the agenda, swaying public opinion, and negotiating with lawmakers. So the statement that formal powers originate in the Constitution or laws while informal powers come from influence and leadership is the best description. Wealth isn’t the defining source of informal power, and ceremonial powers aren’t what formal powers are defined as.