The limit to presidential powers has been an issue for American citizens since the country was founded. Many did not want a sole leader for the country because they feared he would turn the government into another monarchy if he was given or took too much power, leaving the fate of the country to the whims of one man. There had been many problems under the monarchy in England and the founding fathers wanted to make sure the republic they were creating did not turn into the government they had left. While there have been many regulations put in place that limit the President in his presidential powers, these rules remain very vague and, in my opinion, give much more power to the President than was intended at the founding of this country.
Under Article II of the Constitution, the President holds the office of commander in chief, meaning he is in charge of all of this country’s armed forces. While he does not have the power to declare war (only Congress has that power), he does hold the power of the armed forces behind him, deeming what he believes is necessary for the best interests of this country. Additionally, the President has the ability to grant pardons against those who have committed crimes against the United States (U.S. Const. art. 2 §.1). This gives him the ability to grant freedom to anyone he decides should be forgiven for their crimes. This enumerated power is a very strong force because his pardons overturn court rulings and prevents other branches of government from abusing their abilities to punish American citizens.
Another power the President holds is the ability to make treaties with foreign powers. This command gives one man the opportunity to decide which countries are allies and which are enemies and ultimately decides where trust and power is laid outside of the United States. While he needs a 2/3 Senate approval for this power, his influence is heavy when it comes to these decisions. The original intention of this executive...