Does government continue to function as it should, when the elected officials don't do their jobs???? Why would the American public allow this to continue? The second part of the question has to do with the current chapter...What are the characteristics of a good President? A leader? Do they quit before the game is over??

In my opinion, government does continue to function even when not all of its members are participating all of the time. Bills continue to be reviewed and passed regardless of whether or not each and every member of the House of Representatives or Senate is present. Americans would allow this to continue because they don't necessarily see a significant lack of activity in government and in Congress. Plus, the American public probably wouldnt actively say anything about the supposed inactivity of Congress. Whenever things occur on government with regards to issues with efficiency or corruption, things are taken care of within the government. Americans may talk about things, but none really take the initiative to fix things or take charge. Also, the media plays such a large role in the public opinion and only relay information dealing with the president. They never really focus too much on individual members of the Congress. Things are always portrayed throught the acts of the President. If people aren't happy with the government, they blame it on the president.
A good president should be an intelligent person who can withstand all of the criticizms that may come with the presidency. A good president makes his opinions and intentions clear. A big part of the campaign is the media aspect, and with regards to the media, they should be calm however charismatic. A good president must also stick by his decisions and not waver or second guess themself.