Question

In 1960, Historian and Political Scientist Richard Neustadt hypothesized that presidential power originated not from the constitution but rather from the ability to persuade voters and mobilize public opinion (sometimes called "going public"). Explain why the power of persuasion is a more powerful tool for most modern presidents than their constitutional powers.

Answer 1

Most of the presidential candidates were eloquent speakers who were able to move crowds with their persuasive speeches on the current issues that majority people face during their time. This would mean that it’s the trust that they create about them among the people that would help them carry out the policies and programs they desire to take. Thus, it would be those who would be able to persuade people and develop trust would be able to win the elections and become presidents. When people believe that the president would act in their favor through the actions the president takes, people wouldn’t oppose their actions but provide their complete support. This is because of the initial trust that the president was able to create in terms of the president’s ability in solving their issues. That’s why it’s believed that presidential power originated not from the constitution but rather from the ability to persuade voters and mobilize public opinion.

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