Within The Executive Branch Of The U.S. Government 456642
Within The Executive Branch Of The United States Government The Presi
Within the Executive branch of the United States government, the president has powers that can influence public policy. In this assignment, you will be tasked with examining those powers. Assignment Guidelines: Address the following in 400 words: Provide 1–2 examples of the use of presidential powers used by a president during his term in office. Identify and discuss the public policies that have been at issue when using these presidential powers. Have presidential powers evolved over time, or were they a result of a major event? Explain in detail. Do you believe that the evolution of presidential powers is positive for U.S. democracy, or does it infringe upon the duties of the legislature? Use a minimum of 1 reference to reinforce your thoughts. Be sure to include in-text citations and a reference list using APA style.
Paper For Above instruction
The presidential powers in the United States are vast and have significantly shaped the nation's public policies over time. These powers include vetoing legislation, issuing executive orders, appointing federal officials, and acting as Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces. Examining instances of their use reveals how presidential actions influence policy and how these powers have evolved in response to historical events and changing national needs.
One notable example of presidential power in action is President Abraham Lincoln’s use of executive authority during the Civil War. Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863 through his constitutional authority as Commander-in-Chief, which redefined the purpose of the war and directly affected public policy concerning slavery and civil rights. This executive action was a response to the major national crisis of secession and war, showcasing how a president’s powers can be expanded during times of emergency. Lincoln also suspended the writ of habeas corpus, demonstrating the use of extraordinary constitutional powers to preserve the union, although this action sparked debates about the limits of presidential authority.
Another recent example involves President Donald Trump’s use of executive orders, notably the travel bans imposed in 2017. These orders sought to restrict entry from several predominantly Muslim countries, aiming to enhance national security. Their issuance touched on public policy debates surrounding immigration, national security, and constitutional rights. The controversy surrounding these orders highlights how presidential powers, particularly through executive orders, can be used to swiftly implement policy changes but also raise concerns regarding judicial review and checks on executive authority.
Over time, presidential powers have evolved significantly, often in response to major events such as wars, economic crises, or national emergencies. For instance, the expansion of executive powers during World War II and the post-9/11 era reflects a trend toward increased presidential authority to address complex security threats. While some argue this evolution enhances presidential responsiveness and national security, others contend it risks undermining the legislative branch's constitutional role in checks and balances.
The evolution of presidential powers can be viewed positively, as it allows for swift, decisive action during emergencies, ensuring national stability. However, critics argue that excessive expansion of these powers infringes upon legislative authority and threatens democratic accountability. As Schlesinger (2016) notes, unchecked presidential power can erode the balance designed by the Constitution, emphasizing the importance of maintaining oversight and limits on executive authority to preserve democratic integrity.
In conclusion, presidential powers have adapted over time, often driven by major crises, and this evolution carries both benefits and risks. While necessary for effective governance in emergencies, unchecked expansion can threaten the separation of powers fundamental to American democracy.
References
Schlesinger, A. M. (2016). The imperial presidency. W.W. Norton & Company.