What is a key method the President uses to gather public support for an agenda?

Utilizing speeches and media appearances is a key method the President employs to gather public support for their agenda. This approach allows the President to communicate directly with the public, laying out their policies, goals, and the rationale behind them. By using various platforms—such as national addresses, press conferences, and media interviews—the President can effectively reach a wide audience, shape public opinion, and rally support among constituents. Engaging with the media also provides opportunities to respond to public concerns and counter opposition narratives, making this method crucial for mobilizing support and promoting the administration's initiatives.

The other options, while potentially having their functions, do not serve the purpose of gathering public support as effectively. Secret meetings and private letters to Congress limit the reach to policymakers rather than the general public. Limiting press conferences would reduce the opportunities for open communication and transparency, further hampering efforts to generate public enthusiasm and support for presidential agendas.