Today we celebrate what has become a catch-all holiday in honor of not only the men who have been our President, but also the significance of that position itself. In a time where we are constantly told by those on the left that the President has overreached his powers, that his proper role is to be tied down to the whims of the other two branches of government without an equal say, it is important to recognize the dignity and honor of the Executive branch.
If ever there was an example of it in our modern times, it has been the Presidency of George Bush that illustrates the weight that is carried on the shoulders of a single government figurehead. Neither the Congress or the courts are held to the same standards as the President, and therefore it makes sense that neither are meant to share his unique powers. The President is the most openly scorned and praised position in the country. His influence reflects that.
On September 11th and in other times of crisis, the country doesn’t look for a response from Congress. The country has to be reassured by the President. When the economy rocks up or down, it is the President who is held to immediate account, despite the unanswered question of how much influence a President can truly have in the economic short-term. The burdens go on and on, and it takes a unique kind of determination to drive people (of both parties) to pursue those troubles in the hopes of a better country.
Right Wing Nut House is hosting a copy of an excellent article from the American Thinker that shows how Washington embodies all the principles that we’ve come to respect in the Presidency. The case for changing the popular perception of today back to Washington’s Birthday is compelling and certainly worth a read. You’ll learn something. I wasn’t even aware of this anecdote! Washington was the first President in so many ways, and if he’d wished it, he could have shaped the Republic for his own gain. Instead he chose to humble himself after a long and victorious military campaign, hoping for the future.
While you reflect on the office this day, I’ll be updating as tributes turn up across the web.
Babalu Blog links to an upcoming HBO event that is all too timely. Quiz, too.
Frank J. has it short and sweet.
Debbie Schlussel has a President’s Day quiz for you.
IMAO has some… er, questions for you.
More at: Tygrrrr Express | Debbie Schlussel | Patterico’s Pontifications | Sister Toldjah |
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