Federalist 70 Lecture Notes

Introduction

• Focus: Federalist 70, written by Alexander Hamilton.
• Context: Part of the debate during the ratification of the U.S. Constitution.
• Key Idea: Advocates for a single executive (President).

Concerns of Anti-Federalists

• Fear: Concentration of power in one individual akin to monarchy.
• Proposal: Multiple executives to prevent tyranny.

Hamilton's Argument for a Single Executive

• Calls the idea of multiple executives "the dumbest thing."
• Argues a single executive is ideal for a republic.

Key Qualities of the Executive

1. Energy

   • Essential for good government.
   • A single executive can act quickly and decisively.
   • Legislative branch is slower due to debate and compromise.

2. Unity and Responsibility

   • Unity
     • Energy is linked to unity.
     • One person can act with decision, activity, secrecy, and dispatch.
     • Multiple executives result in diminished energy and effectiveness.
     • Historical examples show that multiple executives lead to division and inefficiency, especially in crises.
   • Responsibility
     • A single executive can be held accountable for actions.
     • Multiple actors make it difficult to assign responsibility for failures.
     • If power is abused, it’s clear who is at fault, making it easier for the public to identify and replace a corrupt leader.

Conclusion

• Despite risks of monarchical power, a single executive ensures duties are discharged with energy and decisiveness.
• Clear accountability in case of corruption.
• Reinforces need for a single president to maintain effective governance.

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