Final answer:
Problems during a crisis with a tripartite executive might include delayed decision-making due to required consensus, diffused accountability among the leaders, and potential power struggles that could lead to policy gridlock.
Step-by-step explanation:
If the executive power in the U.S. government were to be held by three individuals instead of a single President, there might be several potential problems that could arise during a crisis. Firstly, decision-making could become more cumbersome and delayed due to the need for consensus among the three executives. During emergencies, swift and decisive action is critical, and the decision, activity, secrecy, and dispatch that are sometimes required could be hindered by a multi-person executive leadership.
Secondly, accountability could become an issue as the public would have to discern responsibility amongst the triad, potentially leading to a diffusion of accountability. This might complicate the public's ability to hold their leaders accountable and, consequently, affect public trust and government legitimacy. The unity of command that is essential for effective crisis management might be challenged in such a tripartite system.
Lastly, the dynamic would fundamentally alter the check and balance system, potentially leading to power struggles both within the executive branch and between the executive and other branches of government. While shared power creates an incentive for cooperation, the distinct possibility of internal discord and policy gridlock—where clear and unified executive policies are essential—could create significant obstacles to effective government operation during critical moments.