Abuse of Executive Power?

A recent article in The New York Times asks this question: “How have presidents used executive power to get re-elected? Is this an abuse of power, or just the usual ‘incumbency advantage’?” It is an interesting question – one that begs to be pondered.

The article presents the views of five various debaters on this issue, specifically where the upcoming 2012 Presidential election is concerned. In regards to President Obama, some believe he is using his executive powers strictly for the purpose of collecting promises for future votes. Paul Butler, a law professor at Georgetown University and a former United States Department of Justice prosecutor, writes, “Look at the bounty that this election year has brought President Obama’s Democratic base: A Dream Act here, an endorsement of gay marriage there. If this be abuse of executive power, let’s make the most of it.”

 

Another one of the five debaters, Linda Chavez, director of public liaison in the Reagan White House and the G.O.P. Senate nominee from Maryland in 1986, reasons that all Presidents, at one point or another, have used their executive powers in this manner to some degree. However, she believes that President Obama has abused this power more than most. Curious about what she has to say?

These five, equally thoughtful and intelligent people make fair points. They don’t all agree with each other on the debate, but they each have valid insight into the thought and motives “behind-the-scenes” in some re-elections.

Issues such as this one are important to consider, especially in the midst of a re-election year. In my opinion, it’s easy to make promises and talk big – whether you’re the current president running for re-election or the man hoping to take his place. Anyone can talk. No matter the promise, or the person making it... if you were prepared to make it, you better be prepared to back it up.