Final answer:
Presidents have both formal and informal powers, the latter of which have expanded over time, especially in foreign policy. Informal powers like the 'bully pulpit' allow presidents to directly influence public opinion and policy. The extent to which these powers grant too much authority is debatable and is kept in check by other branches of government.
Step-by-step explanation:
Do Informal Powers Give Presidents Too Much Power?
The informal powers of presidents today are a subject of ongoing debate. Presidents have both formal and informal powers. Formal powers, such as the veto, nominating Supreme Court justices, and convening the National Assembly, are expressly granted by the Constitution or statute. Informal powers, however, emerge through tradition or custom. These include the 'bully pulpit' - the opportunity for presidents to speak and be heard on any issue, which allows them to persuade citizens and the legislature. Richard Neustadt stated that the president's power to persuade might be their greatest power.
Presidential actions, such as executive orders, signing statements, and international executive agreements, illustrate the use of unilateral powers that bypass traditional legislative processes. This has expanded the influence of presidents, particularly in the realm of foreign policy. The Constitution does give the president considerable authority as commander-in-chief and the primary foreign policy actor, but its vagueness has also led to broad interpretations that expand executive power further.
While the expansion of powers can sometimes break policy deadlocks, it can also lead to opposition and legal challenges. The Supreme Court has a role in interpreting these powers, sometimes expanding and other times limiting the president's powers. The War Powers Resolution, for instance, intended to limit executive power, effectively allowed presidents to engage in military action without immediate Congressional approval.
In conclusion, whether the informal powers of presidents give them too much power is subjective and varies with perspective. The checks and balances system of American democracy, including the judiciary and legislature, is designed to prevent the abuse of any power granted to the president, be it formal or informal.