Government and politics concepts · AP U.S. Government and Politics, AP U.S. History
Federalist No. 70
Federalist No. 70: Alexander Hamilton's essay arguing for an energetic executive office held by one person.
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What it means
Hamilton argued that 'energy in the executive' is essential to good government, enabling decisive action, especially in emergencies and foreign affairs. A single executive also makes accountability clearer, because the public knows whom to blame or credit.
The essay is often used to discuss the growth of presidential power.
Example
A president responding quickly to a natural disaster by directing federal agencies reflects the decisiveness Hamilton associated with a single executive.
On the exam
Federalist No. 70 is a required foundational document, relevant to Unit 2 questions about presidential power.