Federalist 70: Executive Power Insights

The video provides an overview of Federalist 70, written by Alexander Hamilton, which argues for a strong executive branch in the U.S. Constitution. Hamilton emphasizes the need for energy in the executive to effectively execute laws and protect against threats like anarchy and factions. He advocates for a single president to ensure unity, decisiveness, and secrecy. The video also discusses the accountability and removability of the president, contrasting it with the power of a king, and highlights the importance of these features in maintaining a balanced government.

What was one of the main challenges in accepting the new Constitution according to Federalist 70?

• The absence of a judicial system

• The creation of executive power

• The lack of a legislative branch

• The inclusion of a Bill of Rights

According to Hamilton, what is the role of the executive branch?

• To protect against threats

• To manage state governments

• To create laws

• To interpret laws

How does Hamilton suggest the executive branch protects against anarchy?

• By creating new laws

• By enforcing existing laws

• By dissolving factions

• By increasing military presence

What does Hamilton argue is necessary for the effective execution of government ideas?

• A large legislative body

• A strong judicial system

• Energy in the executive branch

• Multiple presidents

Why does Hamilton believe a single president is more effective than a council?

• It reduces the cost of governance

• It ensures more diverse opinions

• It allows for quicker decision-making

• It increases public participation

What is the relationship between energy and unity in the executive branch?

• Energy and unity are unrelated

• Unity decreases energy

• Energy leads to disunity

• Unity enhances energy

Why is secrecy considered important in the executive branch?

• To keep the public uninformed

• To protect national security

• To maintain executive power

• To prevent legislative interference

What is one of the benefits of having a single president according to Hamilton?

• Increased secrecy

• Greater accountability

• More public debates

• Faster legislative processes

What does Hamilton identify as a key difference between a president and a king?

• Presidents are not accountable

• Kings have limited terms

• Presidents are elected

• Kings are removable by vote

What mechanism allows for the removal of a president?

• A vote by the Electoral College

• A referendum by the public

• Impeachment by the judiciary

• A decision by the Supreme Court