U.S. Government Federalist 70

Power of the Executive

Ensure accountability in government. Ensure "energy" in the executive.

Energy

Essential to the steady administration of the laws, to the protection of property against those irregular, and high-handed combinations.

Main Ideas

Hamilton believed that people need an executive who actually executes and fulfills actions within the government, someone who is active and participates. The "ingredients" for an executive are what Hamilton believes will keep a good president active and capable of making progress.

Unity

Ingredient for safety and energy. Constitution's vesting of executive power in a single president by the Constitution.

The Hamiltonian Model

Optimistic view. The Executive branch should be very influential and also require unity. "Energy in the executive is a leading character of good government."

The Madisonian Model

Separation of powers, weak and divided government, checks and balances. Fed Papers 47, 48, and 51. Prevent the branch from becoming too powerful.

How is unity destroyed?

Vesting the power in two or more magistrates, of equal authority. Vesting it in one man or subject to the control and cooperation of others.

Alexander Hamilton

Writer