Question

Presidential power often increases in response to a crisis such as the Civil War, The Great Depression, and 9/11. Do you think the economic crisis that began in 2006 with the mortgage crisis has led to increased power for the presidency? Do you think the current pandemic will result in increased presidential power? What kinds of increase in presidential power might come about as a result of such a crisis? Do other branches of government also gain more power in such a crisis?

Answer 1

The correct answers to these open questions are the following.

Do you think the economic crisis that began in 2006 with the mortgage crisis has led to increased power for the presidency?

Not in that case. President Barack Obama faced one of his toughest decisions during the Freddie Mack crisis and the upcoming financial and Bank crisis in the United States. In the end, he decided to support the financial system, despite many medium and low-class Americans felt betrayed by the President's decision.

Do you think the current pandemic will result in increased presidential power?

It is probable that the actual President tries to increase his powers to make the kind of decisions needed to confront a health crisis that has turned to be an economic crisis that specialists say the US economy is in recession.

What kinds of increase in presidential power might come about as a result of such a crisis?

He can create the kind of legislation to help the country leave the economic crisis as soon as possible, knowing that he can use his veto power. As the commander in chief of the Armed Forces, he can send the national guard or some troops to reestablish the order in some regions of the country.

Do other branches of government also gain more power in such a crisis?

No, I don't think so. The President is the one who can increase his power during these difficult times over the judicial branch and the legislative branch.