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The Path to the Presidency: What does the Constitution say about the executive office?

The role of the chief executive has remained much the same over the centuries. But many important rules about how they become chief executive have come into play through amendments to the U.S. Constitution. If the same rules were still in place from the 18th century, for example, the Nov. 4 elections could end with John McCain elected president and Barack Obama elected vice president, or vice versa. Until the Twelfth Amendment was passed in 1803, the vice presidency went to the runner-up in the vote count. However, Congress realized that it was difficult for two political rivals with potentially different viewpoints to govern together efficiently. Changes like this were meant to improve both the election process and the functions of government, to make it run more smoothly and give the president the maximum amount of support in fulfilling his duties effectively and efficiently. If the founding fathers knew then what we know now, what else do you think they would change about the way the executive branch works? How have the amendments made by Congress over the years affected the way our government is run? Do you think there are further modifications that could or should be made? How about the roles and responsibilities? What other qualifications do you look for when choosing who will best represent you as president? Join the discussion!
 
A change that should be made to the Constitution is how the people vote for the president. The American people should vote directly of the president of the U.S. Everything else about the government is fine.
Richard B., Strodusburg Junior High School, Stroudsburg, Pa.
 
 
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