The President and the Constitution

The U.S. Constitution outlines the powers of the president in Article II. The founders discussed the presidency at length before deciding on the structure that we have today. Eventually, they wanted a strong and nimble executive but not a monarch. While there are specific enumerated powers given to the president, many have pushed the limits to expand their position. They have often assumed implied powers during a national crisis or by reading between the lines. From a passive administration to an active executive, each president has made the office “his own,” and every president has always been controversial. Hopefully, reviewing some of our presidents will reassure the class on the stability of the republic, regardless of the president.