Some people say that a vigorous Executive is inconsistent with the genius of republican government. People who understand and support this type government must hope that there is no foundation for this idea. If it were true, it would condemn their belief in the principles of good government. (Claim: Powerful executive branch equates to a good government)

The executive branch of government must have the inherent powers to effectively accomplish its prescribed duties. (Evidence 1: It must be powerful to do it’s job) Energy in the executive [powers equal to responsibilities] is a primary characteristic of good government.

It is essential to protect the community against foreign attacks. (Evidence 2: Powerful executives can protect the people) It is also essential to the steady administration of laws to protect property against irregular and high-handed conspiracies that sometimes interrupt the ordinary course of justice. And it is essential to secure liberty against the enterprises and assaults of ambition, faction, and anarchy.

Every man with even a little knowledge of Roman history knows how often that republic was obliged to take refuge in the absolute power of a single man with the formidable title of Dictator. He used his authority against both internal intrigues, when ambitious and tyrannical individuals threatened the existence of all government, and invasions by external enemies who tried to conquer and destroy Rome….

The experiences of other nations give little instruction on this topic. However, as far as it teaches anything, it teaches us not to be captivated by the idea of having a plural executive.

The Achaeans, on experimenting with two Praetors, were forced to abolish one. Roman history records many mischiefs to the republic from dissensions between the Consuls and the military Tribunes, who were at times substituted for the Consuls. But history gives us no examples of any particular advantages of a plural executive.

That disagreements between consuls were not more frequent or more fatal is astonishing, until we remember the Roman republic’s almost constant situation. Circumstances required the prudent policy of dividing the government between the consuls. The aristocrats perpetually struggled with the common people to preserve their ancient authorities and dignities. The consuls, who were generally chosen from the aristocrats, often united to defend the privileges of their class.