The Imperial Presidency
Numerous political scientists and historians contend that the institution of the presidency has expanded over time.
In 1973, Arthur Schlesinger Jr. published The Imperial Presidency, in which he analyzed the history of the presidency from its inception, with particular attention to the growing executive power during Nixon’s tenure. The text sparked an ongoing debate among scholars, some of whom argue that the legislative branch has played a role in either increasing or restraining presidential power.
The term “imperial presidency,” which subsequent researchers have adopted, suggests that since WWII, the expansion of presidential power and the growth of federal bureaucracies have emerged as defining features of contemporary governance (Schlesinger, 1973).
This ongoing discourse explores the dynamic relationship between the executive and legislative branches in shaping the balance of power within the U.S. government.
Initial Response
To complete the discussion, you will need to craft an initial post that utilizes at least one referenced source (cited and listed as a reference in APA format) and reply to two other students’ initial posts (i.e., craft two peer responses).
Address the following in about 200–250 words (6–8 sentences / 1–2 paragraphs) minimum:
Select one example of a significant increase or decrease in the power or authority of the executive branch of the United States government.
Summarize the example.
What factors contributed to the example’s increase and/or decrease of power of the executive branch?
How has this example shaped the contemporary understanding of the executive branch?
How could your example evolve in 5, 10, or 20 years from now?
When composing your response, make sure that information from the course’s overview, readings, learning activities, and other relevant academic sources is integrated into your response as required. Sources should be cited and referenced accordingly. You could further explore this topic in the Unit 4 Assignment.
https://constitutioncenter.org/the-constitution/articles/article-ii
https://kapextmediassl-a.akamaihd.net/MAPS/SS236/2303B/SS236_Timeline_%20The_Evolution_of_the_Executive_Branch.pdf
https://kapextmediassl-a.akamaihd.net/MAPS/SS236/2303B/SS236_The_Imperial_Presidency_Notable_Executive_Orders.pdf
References:
Schlesinger, A. M. (1973). The Imperial Presidency. Boston: Houghton Mifflin.
