Lecture Notes: The President's Domestic Policy Role

Overview

• The White House has been the residence of every president since John Adams.
• Public perception often views the president as in charge of national affairs—a concept called "the illusion of presidential government."
• The presidency operates within a system of divided powers.

Goals of the Session

1. Identify the president's domestic powers as provided by the Constitution.
2. Describe how the president's domestic role has expanded over time.
3. Explain conditions affecting the president's ability to achieve domestic policy goals.

Presidential Powers

• Article 2 of the Constitution: Provides vague terms granting the president four powers relevant to domestic policy.
  • Executive Authority: In charge of executing laws passed by Congress (e.g., 2013 Disaster Relief Act).
  • Legislative Power: Includes vetoing Congress acts and proposing legislative initiatives.

Evolution of the Presidency

• Transitioned from a passive to an active role.
• Growth in government size and complexity has expanded presidential responsibilities.
• Creation of the Executive Office of the President in 1939 supported the president with specialists and experts.

Advantages of the Presidency

• National Leadership: The president is the only nationally elected official.
• Bully Pulpit: Ability to shape national agenda and public discourse.
• Unitary Authority: Sole executive authority allows decisive policy planning and coordination.

Legislative Success

• Presidents typically succeed more when their party controls Congress.
• Factors contributing to success include:
  • Fresh election victory.
  • Popularity with the public.
  • Strong government action during crises.
• Congressional control by the opposing party can limit presidential success.

Case Studies

• Food Stamp Act (1964): Passed during a Democratic majority, showcasing presidential influence when Congress supports the president.
• Welfare Reform Act (1996): Enacted under a Republican-controlled Congress, demonstrating limited presidential leverage.

Limitations of Presidential Power

• Executive Orders: Can implement policy but lack permanence and are limited by existing law.
• Need for Congressional Support: Presidential proposals require congressional backing for legitimacy and permanence.

Conclusion

• Despite the perception of presidential dominance, success largely depends on cooperation with Congress.
• The U.S. operates within a separated system, not a presidential system, emphasizing the necessity of shared governance.