"Federalist 70"-Alexander Hamilton and "The American Presidency"-Clinton Rossiter
What are the five roles that Rossiter discusses?
-Chief of State: ceremonial head, must take part in a wide range of activities -Chief Executive: "reigns, but also rules; symbolizes the people, but also runs their government", held accountable to the people -Commander-in-Chief: in peace and war he is the supreme commander of the armed forces -Chief Diplomat: sole organ of the nation in its external relations and its sole representative -Chief Legislator: political, constitutional, and practical position to provide leadership within limits of the Constitution to guide Congress
Explain the significance of the quote, "Wherever two or more persons are engaged in any common enterprise or pursuit, there is always danger of difference of opinion."
-This quote also gives another supporting detail on why singular executives are better in Hamilton's opinion. In it, he explains that plural executives will almost always have varied opinions which are enough to tinge or taint the powers of the executive with common or periodic weakness and procrastination. Meaning that it will decrease their effectiveness from delayed decisions and actions. -Another extension from this quote is that John Stuart Mill would clearly disagree with this because of his firm stance on freedom of speech and how it should never be silenced. Also that difference of opinion should be welcomed not unaccepted.
What is Hamilton's position on the executive?
Hamilton advocates for a singular executive .
Explain the reasoning behind his position.
Hamilton states that, "One of the weightiest objections to a plurality in the executive,...that it tends to conceal faults, and destroy responsibility...to determine whom the blame or punishment of a pernicious measure...ought really to fall." This shows that he feels that if there were problems in a nation because there's more than one executive we can't pin the blame on anyone which makes it seem as if no ones is accountable for the dilemma leading to no solution being brought up to fix it.
What does Hamilton believe an effective singular executive needs?
He believes that they need energy and vigor. Also that unity, duration and adequate provision for its support, and competent powers constitute energy in them. He voices that, "Energy...is the leading character in the definition of good government." This energy is needed for protection of the nation, enforcing laws, protecting property, and guaranteeing freedom and safety against any threats or lawlessness.
Why do you believe he didn't discuss the other two, Chief Economic Planner and Chief of Party?
Most likely because he didn't consider them real roles to the point that they were independent o f the others more like subsections of some. Also it's possible that he believes that they are guaranteed almost like common sense that the president needs to make a budget or help their other party members so those roles didn't need to be explicitly expressed.
Strong Government Definition
Multiple people in the executive position (oligarchy)
Is there any more evidence to support his view?
Yes. Hamilton also states that, "When power is placed in the hands of so small a number of men...it becomes more liable to abuse..." and "Lodged in the hands of one man...will be more narrowly watched and more readily suspected..." This also displays that he thinks plural executives can abuse power easily whereas a single executive can't perform the same action without other people going up against them since they can be watched more critically.
