The Presidential VetoThis is the first modern study of the veto. In addition to tracing the genesis and historical evolution from Ancient Rome, through the ultimate inclusion in the Constitution, it also explores the veto's consequences for modern presidents. In doing so, Spitzer promotes a key argument about the relation between the veto power and the Presidency — namely, that the rise of the veto power, beginning with the first Chief Executive, is symptomatic of the rise of the strong modern Presidency, and has in fact been a major tool of Presidency-building. A special and revealing irony of the veto power is seen in the finding that, despite its monarchical roots and anti-majoritarian nature, the veto has become a key vehicle for presidents to appeal directly to, and on behalf of, the people. Thus, the veto's utility for presidents arises not only as a power to use against Congress, but also as a symbolic, plebiscitary tool. |
Other editions - View all
Common terms and phrases
absolute veto adjournment administration amendment American Andrew Johnson appropriations bill approved argued argument bill or joint billion bills vetoed British budget Carter century cited Cleveland committee Congressional Globe Congressional Quarterly considered Constitution controversy court critics debate defended Democratic Despite enacted enrolled bills executive power exercise existing veto fact Farrand federal Federalist Papers Fisher Ford founders Franklin Roosevelt governor grant Grover Cleveland impeachment important involved issue item veto item veto power Jackson John Tyler joint resolution Kennedy legislative process legislature Line-Item Veto Madison Mason members of Congress monarchical negative Nixon observed overridden passed pocket veto Polk pork barrel presented presidential power presidential veto private bills programs question Reagan regular veto Representatives Republican riders Roosevelt Saudi Senate session spending Spitzer term Tyler veto message veto occurred veto override veto power veto strategy veto threat vetoed bills vote Washington Whig White House York