A reader's companion
A theme in the papers
The Federalist Papers on the Presidency
Electing a president, and why the office was built for energy without monarchy.
The presidency worried the ratifiers more than almost anything else. A single executive sounded like a king, and the country had just fought a war to be rid of one.
Hamilton’s answer runs through these essays: an executive with real energy, but elected, limited in term, checked by the other branches, and — unlike a king — answerable for what he does. Read together they are the founders’ case that a strong presidency and a free republic could coexist.
Federalist No. 68: Electing the President
The mode of electing the president, and guarding the choice against foreign influence and demagogues.
Federalist No. 69: President Versus King
A point-by-point contrast between the new president and the British king, answering the charge of monarchy.
Federalist No. 70: Energy in the Executive
"Energy in the executive" — why the office is one person, not a council, and how accountability follows.
Federalist No. 73: The Veto and Independence
The veto and a salary the legislature cannot touch: independence built into the office.
Federalist No. 74: Commander in Chief and Pardons
Command of the military and the pardon power, and why they rest with one accountable person.