the presidency in action: presidential power. article ii article ii is known as the executive...
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The Presidency in Action:Presidential Power
Article II
Article II is known as the Executive Article because it established the presidency.
Article II established the following powers:a. command the armed forcesb. make treatiesc. approve or veto acts of Congressd. send and receive diplomatic representativese. grant pardons and reprievesf. see that the laws are faithfully executed
Beginning at the Philadelphia Convention, there has been a struggle between those who want a strong presidency and those who want a weak presidency.
Why Presidential Power Has Grown
Throughout American history, those who want a strong presidency have usually prevailed.
One reason for the growth of presidential power has been the nation’s increasingly complex social and economic life. As the United States has become more industrialized and more technologically advanced, the people have demanded that the Federal Government play a larger role in the transportation, labor, civil rights, health, welfare, education, and the environment. Americans look to the President for leadership in these matters.
The frequent need for decisive action in times of national emergency has also strengthened presidential power, most notably during times of war.
Why Presidential Power Has Grown
The President has a unique ability to attract public attention and build support for policies and actions. Every president since FDR has purposely used the mass media to that end. In his First 100 Days, President Obama addressed the nation by television three times.
Even Congress has strengthened the presidency by passing laws that added to the activities of the Executive Branch.
Congress has also limited the President’s powers, such as the War Powers Resolution of 1973. Out of growing frustration and anguish over the Vietnam War, this was designed to place limits on a president’s war-making powers.
The Presidential View
Some strong, effective Presidents have stated the stewardship theory, which takes a broad view of their powers.
Examples: Teddy Roosevelt
Critics of strong presidential power compare the President to an emperor, calling a strong presidency an imperial presidency.
Examples: Andrew Jackson, Richard Nixon
