Energy in the Executive

From The Federalist Papers by Hamilton, Madison, Jay
Hamilton defends a single, energetic executive as essential to good government, arguing unity, duration, adequate support, and competent powers make the presidency effective and accountable.
Federalist No. 70 (Hamilton)

Contains the famous opening: 'Energy in the Executive is a leading character in the definition of good government.'

Read in Books4Free →
Federalist No. 70

Defends unity in the executive against plural executives or executive councils, arguing that division destroys responsibility.

Read in Books4Free →
Federalist No. 68 (Hamilton)

Defends the electoral college as ensuring the office will be filled by characters 'pre-eminent for ability and virtue.'

Read in Books4Free →
Federalist No. 71

Argues for a four-year term so the executive can resist 'the humors of the legislature' and short-term passions of the people.

Read in Books4Free →

Read or Listen to The Federalist Papers on Books4Free

Every chapter free to read. Free audio narration on the opening chapter. Plus an AI study assistant that knows the book.

Open in Books4Free →
X Facebook