Discussion Post
Module Discussion focuses on the exercise of presidential powers in the issuance of an executive order. There are many executive orders that presidents have issued throughout history and while executive orders are legally binding, they remain a controversial use of presidential authority and what some believe to be an inherently ambiguous power. There are many reasons why presidents may choose to exercise their authority to invoke executive orders. For purposes of this discussion, you can review one or more executive orders that have related to health policy matters.
This discussion should not reflect political perspectives but should focus on critical points about the use of executive orders to potentially shape policy agendas by initiating action, preventing or blocking action, presenting a positive policy statement or because there is no other policy alternative to get results.
Discussion Focus -
a) Consider TWO advantages and TWO disadvantages of the use of executive orders.
b) What are the potential political and policy consequences associated with their use?
c) Do they reflect the strength or weakness of the institution of the presidency? Why?
d) Are they appropriate for use with some types of policy issues but not others? Why? Give some examples.