As a delegate to the Constitutional Convention, Alexander Hamilton found some of his ideas about how to structure a federal government soundly rejected. Despite this setback, Hamilton continued to advocate for a strong executive branch in his writings, particularly in Federalist 70. In this document, Hamilton emphasizes the importance of energy in the executive as a key component of good government.
Hamilton believed that a vigorous executive, with the power to act decisively and swiftly, was essential for effective governance. He argued that a weak executive would only lead to inefficiency and chaos, hindering the ability of the government to address critical issues facing the nation. Hamilton's views on executive energy were shaped by his experiences during the Revolutionary War and his observations of government functions both domestically and internationally.
Traditional rankings of the American presidents ask whether our chief executives did what was necessary for the good of the country. Hamilton's emphasis on energy in the executive is a reflection of this sentiment, as he believed that a strong and active executive was necessary to ensure the well-being and prosperity of the nation. In Federalist 70, Hamilton makes the case for a unitary executive, with a clear chain of command and the ability to act decisively in times of crisis.