Topic 3 Discussion Replies

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Topic 3 Discussion Replies

Shelby Whittington

It is easy to notice why one may argue that popularity is the real locus of American presidential power. However, this is not entirely true due to the roles that other factors assume in the establishment of presidential power (Reeves and Rogowski 113). In disagreement with the respective post, it is essential to note that aspects such as low approval ratings, popularity with the Congress, and policy changes do not necessarily mean that presidential candidates cannot receive support from the electorate.

Jacob Varble

The post is disagreeable because it uses democracy to argue for popularity. As far as presidential power is concerned, the democratic ideals expressed in the United States Constitution provide the electorate with the platform to elect the leaders that they desire on a variety of factors that are not necessarily inclined towards popularity (Mansbridge 519). Furthermore, the support for a president may be centered on his or her ability to deliver the needs of the citizens.

Madelleine Meredith

In opposition, the mandate that the president possesses as the leader of the respective country further rules out any indication that popularity is instrumental in the attainment of presidential power. Over the years, America has been ruled by presidents that were not particularly popular among majority of American citizens (Hibbing 144). For instance, individuals such as Abraham Lincoln – while not being the most popular of leaders – were favorably accepted due to their commitment towards the resolution of issues that affected Americans (McCarty 375). Hence, asserting that popularity solely determines presidential power is illogical.

Grant Redpath

Indeed, seeing popularity as the locus of presidential power may be based on the circumstances surrounding Trump’s selection as president of the United States. Despite this, American politics are not a popularity contest. This is because the efforts that are usually applied in processes such as campaigns tend to be based on the candidate’s ability or commitment to resolve issues and problems affecting his or her electorate (Edwards 54). In addition to this, relationships with members of the Congress do not necessarily mean that a popular president will be able to perform the required duties as an outcome of influences such as lobbyists and interest groups.

Works Cited

Edwards, George C. The Public Presidency: The Pursuit of Popular Support. St. Martins, 1990.

Hibbing, John R. Congress as Public Enemy. Cambridge UP, 2010.

Mansbridge, Jane. “Rethinking Representation.” American Political Science Review, vol. 97, 2003, pp. 515-528.

McCarty, Nolan. “Presidential Vetoes in the Early Republic: Changing Constitutional Norms or Electoral Reform?” Journal of Politics, vol. 71, 2009, pp. 369-384.

Reeves, Andrew, and Jon C. Rogowski. “Public Opinion toward Presidential Power.” Presidential Studies Quarterly, vol. 45, 2015, pp. 742-759.