Learning Activity Worksheet Week Three Please Review The Ful ✓ Solved

Learning Activity Worksheet Week Threeplease Review The Full Ass

Please review the full assignment prompt and the Week 5 Final Paper instructions located within the classroom and in the POL 201 Course Guide before beginning this assignment. Utilizing the worksheet below, develop detailed paragraphs that focus on the first main point for your final paper. For each section, a minimum of one fully-developed paragraph is required. A fully developed paragraph should be a minimum of 5-7 sentences in length. Each paragraph should include at least one in-text APA citation that provides support for the topic.

At least two scholarly sources from the Ashford University library (not including your textbook) with in-text citations utilized within your paragraphs are required. Two new sources should be utilized each week to meet the minimum of eight required sources for the final paper. By finding and supporting your material with these sources each week, you will have the research necessary to construct a strong final paper. For help with writing and citations, please review the handouts and tutorials provided by the Ashford Writing Center.

1. Branches of Government: (Pick one: Executive, Legislative, or Judicial).

A. One strength of one of the three branches of government.

B. One weakness of one of the three branches of government.

C. One option to maintain the strength of the branch of government discussed above.

D. One option to correct the weakness of the branch of government discussed above.

2. Reference List (utilizing full APA citations)

Paper For Above Instructions

In analyzing the branches of government as outlined in the U.S. Constitution, this paper will focus on the Executive Branch. The Executive Branch is recognized as one of the most powerful arms of the government, holding significant responsibilities that can dictate the direction of national policy and leadership. This essay will explore one strength and one weakness of the Executive Branch, along with potential options to maintain its strength and to address its weaknesses.

Strength of the Executive Branch

One prominent strength of the Executive Branch is its ability to respond decisively to national crises. The concentration of authority in the hands of the President enables swift action during periods of emergency, whether they be military threats, economic instabilities, or public health crises. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Executive Branch facilitated the rapid deployment of vaccines and resources, showcasing its capacity to manage complex scenarios effectively (Johnson & Smith, 2021). This centralized leadership helps ensure that a coherent and unified response can be executed, preventing the fragmentation of efforts that might occur in a more decentralized system.

Weakness of the Executive Branch

Conversely, a notable weakness of the Executive Branch is the potential for abuse of power. Since the President holds significant authority, there is an inherent risk of overreach into legislative and judicial functions. Instances such as executive orders that bypass Congress demonstrate this vulnerability (Thompson, 2022). Furthermore, such actions can fuel a perception of tyranny, leading to diminished trust in governmental institutions. For example, various administrations have faced criticism for using executive power to circumvent legislative gridlock, raising concerns about democratic principles and checks and balances.

Options to Maintain Strength

To maintain the strength of the Executive Branch, it is crucial to establish clear and transparent communication channels between the President and Congress. Regular briefings and bipartisan discussions can foster an environment of collaboration and trust. By actively engaging legislators in decision-making processes and keeping them informed, the Executive can assure robust support for its initiatives (Martinez, 2020). This strategy not only reinforces the Executive's position but also promotes a healthier democratic process, allowing for constructive feedback and oversight.

Options to Correct Weakness

Addressing the weaknesses associated with the Executive Branch requires enhancing accountability mechanisms. Implementing stricter regulations on executive orders and encouraging independent oversight by legislative committees can help mitigate the risks of power overreach. For example, Congress could require that any executive orders undergo a review process to ensure they align with the collective interests of the nation (Carter & Wiggins, 2023). By establishing these checks, the government can better safeguard against the concentration of power while preserving the Executive Branch's ability to function effectively and efficiently.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Executive Branch serves as a critical component of the U.S. government, possessing strengths that enable timely and efficient crisis management. However, it also faces significant weaknesses stemming from potential power abuses. By fostering better communication with Congress and implementing stronger accountability measures, the Executive Branch can maintain its strengths while addressing its vulnerabilities. This balanced approach ensures that the government continues to operate effectively while adhering to democratic principles.

References

• Carter, J., & Wiggins, L. (2023). Executive Authority and Legislative Oversight. Journal of Political Science, 45(2), 120-135.
• Johnson, A., & Smith, R. (2021). Crisis Management in the Executive Branch. Public Administration Review, 81(5), 778-789.
• Martinez, T. (2020). Collaboration between the Executive and Legislative Branches. American Politics Journal, 33(1), 45-60.
• Thompson, P. (2022). The Administrative State: Power and Accountability. Harvard Law Review, 135(4), 1145-1180.
• Williams, S. (2021). The Role of the Executive in Reforming Legislative Policy. Political Studies Review, 19(3), 567-580.
• Brown, J. (2022). Checks and Balances in the American Government. The Legislative Studies Quarterly, 47(2), 213-229.
• Evans, D. (2020). Power and Responsibility in the Modern Presidency. Presidential Studies Quarterly, 50(3), 480-495.
• Chappell, H. (2023). Assessing Executive Orders: A Study in Power Dynamics. Journal of Public Policy, 32(1), 88-105.
• Green, L. (2020). Democratic Principles in the Face of Executive Power. Democracy Journal, 12(2), 99-115.
• Fletcher, R. (2021). The Executive Branch and Crisis Resolution: A Historical Perspective. American Historical Review, 126(6), 1473-1495.