American Federal Government
A functioning legislative branch is paramount to a healthy democracy. To the degree that our Framers embraced this philosophy can be seen in the expansive list of powers granted Congress by the Constitution. However, in recent years, many have pointed to the erosion of the nation’s legislature. In particular, it has been noted that the presidential use of executive agreements, executive orders, and signing statements have harmed America’s doctrine of separation of powers by circumventing the legislative process itself. To this end:
Select one of the topics to expound upon, either executive agreements, executive orders, or signing statements.
Identify the constitutional basis for such, if any.
Provide an example of this tool at work in American federal government;
Explain the intersection of such use with the doctrine of separation of powers.
Conclude by affirming the strength or weakness of the nation’s legislative process.
