The Presidency

1. To what extent can the presidency influence the success and failure of the domestic economy? More specifically, what tools are at the president's disposal? Which political circumstances best position the president for success? Which, for failure? In your response, be sure to reference course material whenever appropriate.

2. Some critics of the modern president claim that the position resembles more an emperor than a public servant when it comes to setting American foreign policy. Do you agree with this sentiment? More specifically, to what extent does the presidency have control of American foreign policy strategy and actions abroad? In your response, be sure to reference course material whenever appropriate.

3. The current debate over the nomination of Judge Merrick Garland has brought into question the level of influence the presidency should have in the judicial system. What tools and authority granted to the president help him shape the judicial system and its outcomes? In your response, be sure to reference course material whenever appropriate.