Title: Unitary Executive Theory and the Imperial Presidency
Headings: Unitary Executive Theory and the Imperial Presidency
Unitary Executive Theory and the Imperial Presidency
Examples of the Imperial Presidency
Unitary Executive Theory
Imperial Presidency
Short History
Independent Counsel
Line-Item Veto
Presidential Signing Statements
Possible Use of Torture
Watch Now: Checks and Balances in the U.S. Government

Content: Some believe the president holds broad power, citing this passage from Article II, Section 1 of the U.S. Constitution: The executive Power shall be vested in a President of the United States of America. And from Section 3: [H]e shall take Care that the Laws be faithfully executed, and shall Commission all the Officers of the United States. The view that the president holds total control over the executive branch is called the unitary executive theory. Unitary Executive Theory
Under the George W. Bush administration's interpretation of the unitary executive theory, the president has authority over members of the executive branch. He functions as a CEO or Commander-in-Chief, and his power is restricted only by the U.S. Constitution as interpreted by the judiciary. Congress can hold the president accountable only by censure, impeachment or constitutional amendment. Legislation restricting the executive branch has no power. Imperial Presidency
Historian Arthur M. Schlesinger Jr. wrote The Imperial Presidency in 1973 , a groundbreaking history of presidential power centering on an extensive critique of President Richard Nixon.