Flashcards fed 70

Author of Federalist No. 70

Alexander Hamilton, writing under the pseudonym 'Publius.'

Core premise of Federalist No. 70

Energy in the executive is essential for good government.

Why is an energetic executive needed for laws?

To enforce the laws steadily.

Why is an energetic executive needed against threats?

To defend the nation against foreign attack.

Why is an energetic executive needed for property?

To protect property against irregular combinations disrupting justice.

Why is an energetic executive needed for liberty?

To protect liberty against faction and anarchy.

First ingredient of executive 'energy'

Unity (a single person holding the office).

Second ingredient of executive 'energy'

Duration (a term long enough for stability).

Third ingredient of executive 'energy'

Adequate provision for support (secure salary).

Fourth ingredient of executive 'energy'

Competent powers (real authority to act).

Primary benefit of a single executive regarding speed

Decisiveness, activity, secrecy, and dispatch.

Hamilton's strongest point for a single executive

Accountability (a plural executive hides responsibility).

Why did Hamilton reject an executive council?

It blurs accountability and mirrors the flaws of a plural executive.

Two greatest securities a republic has regarding a single executive

The people can watch one person and hold them responsible easily.

Modern debate surrounding Federalist No. 70

Debates over presidential power and the 'unitary executive' theory.