The Founding Fathers, Executive Orders, and the Danger of Shortcuts in Democracy

When the Founding Fathers laid the groundwork for the United States, they were determined to create a system that would prevent the concentration of power in the hands of a single individual. Having just fought a revolution to free themselves from the tyranny of a king, they designed a government with three co-equal branches: the legislative, the executive, and the judicial. Each branch was meant to serve as a check on the others, ensuring that no one person or group could wield unchecked authority.

Fast forward to today, and this delicate balance of power is being tested. President Donald Trump’s reliance on executive orders has sparked a heated debate about the role of the presidency and the limits of executive power. While executive orders are not inherently unconstitutional, their overuse—or misuse—can undermine the very principles of democracy that the Founding Fathers sought to protect.

### The President’s Role: Signer, Not Legislator

Contrary to popular belief, the president’s primary job is not to create laws. That responsibility falls squarely on Congress, the branch of government directly elected by the people to represent their interests. The president’s role is to sign legislation into law, execute the laws passed by Congress, and serve as the nation’s chief diplomat and commander-in-chief.

Yet, many Americans have come to view the president as something akin to a CEO—a singular authority figure who can make sweeping decisions and expect everyone to fall in line. This misconception is not only inaccurate but also dangerous. The president is not a supreme boss; they are a public servant bound by the Constitution and the rule of law.

### Abraham Lincoln’s Lesson: Laws Over Executive Orders

This distinction between temporary executive actions and enduring laws was brilliantly illustrated in the 2012 film *Lincoln*, starring Daniel Day-Lewis as the 16th president. The movie focuses on Lincoln’s efforts to pass the 13th Amendment, which abolished slavery in the United States. At one point, Lincoln’s advisors urge him to simply issue an executive order to end slavery, arguing that it would be faster and easier.

But Lincoln, in his wisdom, rejects this approach. He understands that executive orders are fleeting—they can be overturned by the next administration or struck down by the courts. Laws, on the other hand, especially constitutional amendments, are far more permanent. By working tirelessly to pass the 13th Amendment through Congress, Lincoln ensures that the abolition of slavery becomes a lasting part of the nation’s legal framework.

Lincoln’s foresight serves as a powerful reminder: executive orders are a temporary fix, but laws are the foundation of a stable and enduring democracy.

### Donald Trump and the Executive Order Dilemma

President Trump’s reliance on executive orders stands in stark contrast to Lincoln’s approach. Rather than working with Congress to pass meaningful legislation, Trump has often opted for the quick and easy route of issuing executive orders. While these orders may excite his base and generate headlines, they lack the permanence and legitimacy of laws passed by Congress.

The problem with this approach is twofold. First, executive orders are inherently temporary. Once Trump leaves office, his successors can easily reverse them, leaving the country right back where it started. Second, by circumventing Congress, Trump undermines the legislative process and the principle of checks and balances that is so vital to our democracy.

### The Path Forward: Patience, Negotiation, and Collaboration

The challenges facing the United States today—whether they involve healthcare, immigration, or climate change—require thoughtful, long-term solutions. These solutions cannot be achieved through executive orders alone. They demand patience, negotiation, and collaboration between the executive and legislative branches.

Unfortunately, President Trump’s approach suggests either a lack of understanding of how the system works or a disregard for its principles. Either way, his reliance on executive orders is a disservice to the American people and a threat to the democratic process.

### Conclusion: Democracy Is Not a Quick Fix

The Founding Fathers designed a system of government that is deliberately slow and cumbersome. They understood that democracy is not about quick fixes or unilateral decisions; it’s about compromise, deliberation, and the rule of law.

As citizens, it’s our responsibility to hold our leaders accountable and demand that they uphold these principles. Executive orders may be tempting as a shortcut, but they are no substitute for the hard work of crafting lasting legislation. In the words of Abraham Lincoln, laws are “damn near forever.” It’s time we remember that and demand nothing less from our leaders.

America will endure long after Donald Trump leaves office. The question is whether his legacy will be one of temporary executive actions or lasting contributions to the nation’s progress. The choice is his—and ours.