What Is the Meaning of a Presidential System of Government?
The presidential system, also known as executive government, is distinguished by a singular figure who presides over the government by the will of the people. The president directs the administrative affairs of the country, and usually oversees foreign relations. Unlike a dictator, he does not possess authoritative powers but is subject to the laws of the nation.
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History
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The presidential system has its origins in the monarchies of medieval Europe. Like a king, the president retains executive authority over the state and government. The system took its modern form following the publication of "The Spirit of the Laws" in 1748 by French philosopher Charles de Secondat, better known as Baron de Montesquieu. He introduced the concept of the separation of powers, a political doctrine that nearly 40 years later influenced the Founding Fathers of what became the United States.
Types
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The presidential system of the United States contains a strong executive equal to the legislative and judicial branches. Semipresidential systems in other countries blend the American model with parliamentary traditions. The legislature elects a prime minister or premier to check presidential authority. A weak system, like that used in Bulgaria or Ireland, limit's presidential power by allowing only the prime minister to introduce legislation and interact with parliament. A strong system, like that used in South Korea, makes the prime minister answerable to the chief executive.
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Features
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The president is elected directly by voters and is answerable to them. The separation of powers is countered by checks and balances so that no one branch has complete control of the government. Although the president cannot introduce bills to the legislature, he can sign them into law or veto them. The judiciary can review the legality of executive decisions.
Function
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The presidential system can have either two political parties or a plurality. In some multiparty countries, like Mexico, a simple a majority wins the election, while in France, runoff elections are held until one party earns more than half the votes. If one political party controls the executive branch and the other the legislative, gridlock or paralysis can occur. Political leaders form alliances to pass legislation, but quickly dissolve them without removing one party from power.
Significance
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Elections are held at fixed times. Neither the president nor legislature can call for new elections. Although the president is elected by the people, he can be removed from office by the legislature in cases of corruption. Fixed terms mean that a president can achieve lame-duck status months, if not a year or more, before leaving office, creating inertia or uncertainty in government action.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Lincoln Memorial - Washington DC image by Misha Tyukin from Fotolia.com
