Discussion Post: The Modern Presidency
Chapter 1 from Grover (from his book, The President as Prisoner) describes the rise of the modern presidency as a fundamental shift in the nature of the office (see also Pika et al., Chapter 1 from Politics of the Presidency).
So, what is the modern presidency? Please write a post exploring the rise and nature of the modern presidency compared to the earlier presidency. Your answer should consider some specific insights from the readings. Discuss at least one of the following:
• What led to the emergence of the modern presidency and how does it differ from the earlier 'traditional' presidency?
• What does Laski see as the obstacles to a powerful 'modern' presidency before the 1930s? Do some of these still apply even if the presidency has become more powerful?
• What is Rossiter's approach to understanding the modern presidency? Why is he confident this modern office will not become dangerously powerful?
• How does Neustadt understand presidential power, even in the modern presidency? What does it take for a president to be successful in handling the modern office? How does Neustadt's view potentially challenge or go beyond Rossiter?
The response should include a reference list. One-inch margins, Using Times New Roman 12 pnt font, double-space and APA style of writing and citations.