Federalist No. 70

Definition

Federalist No. 70 is an essay written by Alexander Hamilton as part of the Federalist Papers, advocating for a strong executive branch led by a single president. Hamilton argues that a unitary executive is essential for energy, efficiency, and accountability in governance, promoting a clear and decisive leadership that is crucial for effective administration.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Hamilton argues that a single executive leader is more effective than a plural executive because it promotes accountability and swift decision-making.
2. The essay stresses that a strong executive is vital for national defense and foreign affairs, allowing for quick responses to threats or crises.
3. Hamilton contends that having a single president minimizes conflicts and disagreements that might arise in a multi-member executive body.
4. Federalist No. 70 addresses concerns about potential tyranny by emphasizing that a strong executive must be accountable to the people through elections.
5. The ideas presented in Federalist No. 70 have influenced the structure and powers of the presidency as outlined in the Constitution and subsequent interpretations.

Review Questions

• How does Federalist No. 70 justify the need for a single executive in contrast to a plural executive?
  • Federalist No. 70 justifies the need for a single executive by highlighting the importance of accountability and efficient decision-making. Hamilton argues that a unitary executive can act decisively and swiftly without the delays caused by multiple leaders needing to reach consensus. This efficiency is essential for responding to national emergencies and ensuring stability in governance, which he believes would be compromised under a plural executive model.
• In what ways does Federalist No. 70 address concerns about potential abuses of power by the president?
  • Federalist No. 70 addresses concerns about potential abuses of power by emphasizing the role of accountability through elections and the checks established by other branches of government. Hamilton argues that a strong executive must still answer to the electorate, providing an incentive for the president to act in the public's interest. He also reassures readers that the system of checks and balances will prevent any one branch from gaining excessive power, thereby mitigating fears of tyranny.
• Evaluate how Federalist No. 70 has shaped modern interpretations of presidential power and responsibilities in American governance.
  • Federalist No. 70 has significantly shaped modern interpretations of presidential power by establishing a framework that prioritizes strong leadership while advocating for accountability mechanisms. The essay's insistence on energetic executive action has influenced expectations around presidential responsiveness and decisiveness, particularly in times of crisis. Additionally, its emphasis on accountability has fostered ongoing debates regarding the scope of executive authority and its limits, especially in contexts like national security or emergency powers, highlighting its enduring relevance in American political discourse.

Related terms

Federalist Papers: A series of 85 articles and essays promoting the ratification of the United States Constitution, primarily authored by Hamilton, Madison, and Jay.

Unitary Executive Theory: The theory that the president possesses the power to control the entire executive branch, emphasizing the importance of a single leader for effective governance.

Checks and Balances: A fundamental principle of the U.S. Constitution that ensures that no one branch of government becomes too powerful, with each branch having some measure of influence over the other branches.