Federalist #71

The Duration in Office of the Executive  (Hamilton)

IN essay 71, Alexander Hamilton argues for a presidential term of four years as prescribed in the Constitution. Hamilton counters the argument that such a lengthy amount of time would give such a man too much power at the expense of the legislature.

Hamilton opens with the executive serving as a “guardian” of common interests for the people as a whole. Sometimes, Hamilton points out, the passions and interests of people differ with their sensible inclinations that can flame up into sudden irrational passions that are at odds with their ideas for good government and liberty. The executive, serving an extended period, can counter these passions and can “withstand the temporary delusion, in order to give them time and opportunity for more cool and sedate reflection.”

He then shifts to the independence of the executive from the legislature. Hamilton notes that the legislative members can sometimes think of themselves as “the people,” and can quickly become offended by opposition from other government quarters and oppose them at all costs. Having an independent executive branch allows the person to act with conviction and vigor without interference from the legislature, and thus, serving their balance of the Constitution. In arguing for a four year term, the executive has time to serve the duties required of him by the Constitution while at the same time knowing that an election is not too distant. This would likely reduce the personal ambitions that would put security at risk for all people.