Q

QuestionPolitical Science

Describe the viewpoint expressed in the quote. The viewpoint expressed in the quote is that the U. S. President, during the recess of the legislature, is without proper support, information, and advice. This situation may lead the President to rely on minions, favorites, or an informal council of state composed of the principal officers of the great departments. The author of the quote considers this to be a dangerous council in a free country. **Step 2:** Describe two arguments in Federalist No. 70 that address the concerns expressed in the quote. First, Federalist No. 70 argues that a unitary executive, as opposed to a plural executive, is essential for providing energy in the executive department. A unitary executive allows for more decisive and vigorous action, which is necessary for the proper execution of laws. By having a single executive, the President can ensure that the laws are executed with consistency, uniformity, and efficiency. This counteracts the concern expressed in the quote about the President being unsupported and relying on an informal and potentially dangerous council. Second, Federalist No. 70 highlights the importance of the President being independent from the legislature. This independence allows the President to check the legislature's potential overreach and maintain a balance of power. By being separate from the legislature, the President can ensure that the concerns of the quote do not materialize, as the President will not be overly influenced by the legislature and can still make informed decisions. **Step 3:** Explain how two different provisions in the Constitution were designed to prevent the concerns expressed in the quote. First, the Constitution's Appointments Clause (Article II, Section 2, Clause 2) establishes that the President has the power to appoint principal officers of the great departments, such as the Secretary of State, the Secretary of the Treasury, and the Secretary of Defense, with the advice and consent of the Senate. This provision ensures that the President has access to a formal council of state composed of knowledgeable and experienced individuals who can provide proper information and advice during the legislature's recess. This formal council of state is less likely to be influenced by partisan politics or personal favoritism compared to an informal council. Second, the Constitution's Recess Appointments Clause (Article II, Section 2, Clause 3) allows the President to fill vacancies that may occur during the recess of the Senate by making temporary appointments. These recess appointments expire at the end of the next session of Congress. This provision enables the President to ensure that the government continues to function effectively during the legislature's recess without relying on an informal and potentially dangerous council.