A recent poll conducted by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Opinion Research reveals that while most Americans express a desire for the government to maintain a system of checks and balances to prevent any branch, especially the presidency, from becoming too powerful, this sentiment changes depending on the political party in power. The poll found that only about 2 in 10 Americans believe it would be a positive development for the next president to have the ability to change policy without waiting for approval from Congress or the courts. However, nearly 6 in 10 Republicans support the idea of a future President Donald Trump being able to take unilateral action, while about 4 in 10 Democrats feel the same about President Joe Biden.
The increasing polarization in the country is evident in the sentiments expressed by individuals like Richard Bidon, a Democrat from Los Angeles, who supports a strong presidency when a Democrat is in power but not so much when a Republican holds the office. Similarly, individuals like Bob Connor from Missouri are looking for decisive action on issues like border security, feeling disillusioned by the lack of progress in Congress. Joe Titus from Texas believes that the Republicans in Congress have hindered legislative action, and therefore supports Biden taking unilateral action on certain issues.
The presidency has been gaining power in recent years as congressional gridlock has become more common, prompting presidents to rely on administrative policies and executive orders to address issues. The potential weakening of federal agencies’ ability to issue regulations, pending a Supreme Court ruling, could further empower the administration to make policy changes independently. There are also concerns that, if Republicans win the White House in November, they may attempt to increase executive branch influence over policymaking.
The poll also revealed that views on the distribution of power among government institutions are influenced by political affiliations. Democrats are less likely to believe that the presidency has too much power, given their party’s control over the White House, while a significant number of Republicans feel otherwise. With Congress evenly divided between the two parties, views on the legislature’s power are similar across party lines. However, there is generally a consensus among Americans that major policies should be approved by Congress and receive judicial approval.
While the idea of a president with unchecked power remains unpopular in general, there are calls for prompt action on certain issues by the next president, especially regarding matters like border security. Individuals like Steven Otney from South Carolina believe that major policies should be approved by Congress and the courts but are open to swift action on urgent matters. Overall, the sentiment among the public reflects a willingness to challenge the traditional political framework and explore alternative approaches to governance.
