The unitary executive theory is a dubious right-wing constitutional interpretation that asserts the President of the United States possesses all executive power and authority, and that this power cannot be divided or delegated among other entities within the executive branch. This theory argues that the President has exclusive control over the executive branch and its agencies, as well as the authority to direct, supervise, and remove subordinate officials as they see fit. The unitary executive theory is based on an unorthodox interpretation of Article II of the U.S. [[Constitution]], which states that "the executive Power shall be vested in a President of the United States of America." Proponents of this theory argue that this language implies a concentration of executive authority in the President, without any limitations or qualifications -- which is at odds with the painstaking application of checks and balances exacted by the Framers. ## Key aspects of unitary executive theory 1. **Presidential control**: The unitary executive theory emphasizes the President's authority to direct and supervise all aspects of the executive branch, including the actions of subordinate officials and agencies. This perspective contends that the President has the final say on all matters related to the executive branch and its functions. 2. **Removal power**: According to the unitary executive theory, the President has the authority to remove any subordinate official within the executive branch without needing approval from Congress or any other entity. This power of removal is seen as essential for maintaining the President's control over the executive branch and ensuring the efficient execution of their policies and decisions. 3. **Limited checks on executive power**: The unitary executive theory tends to minimize the role of Congress and the judiciary in checking or constraining the President's executive authority. Proponents argue that the [[separation of powers]] doctrine grants the President broad discretion in exercising their executive power, with limited interference from other branches of government. 4. **Controversy and debate**: The unitary executive theory has been the subject of considerable debate and controversy among legal scholars, politicians, and the public. Critics argue that this interpretation of the Constitution grants too much power to the President, potentially undermining the checks and balances that are central to the U.S. political system. They contend that the Constitution does not explicitly endorse a unitary executive and that other branches of government have a legitimate role in overseeing and regulating the executive branch. # Criticism of the unitary executive Critics of the unitary executive theory argue that it can lead to an excessive concentration of power in the President, creating a risk of [[tyranny]] and threatening the system of checks and balances that underlies the U.S. [[Constitution]]. They contend that the Framers of the Constitution intended to establish a more nuanced and collaborative distribution of executive powers, involving a balance between the President's authority and the role of [[Congress]] and the courts in overseeing and checking executive actions. The unitary executive theory has been the subject of significant debate among legal scholars, political scientists, and policymakers, particularly in discussions around the scope of presidential powers and the balance of power between the executive and legislative branches of government. The theory has also played a role in a number of high-profile court cases and policy decisions, such as those involving executive orders, war powers, and presidential removal of executive officers. The unitary executive theory has had a significant impact on discussions of presidential power and the structure of the U.S. government. Its implications for the balance of power among the branches of government, the role of Congress in overseeing the executive branch, and the potential for executive overreach continue to be subjects of ongoing debate and analysis. See also: [GOP Big Lies](https://doctorparadox.net/gop-myths/gop-big-lies/)