8. Obama and the End of the Imperial Presidency

In this article Zachary Karabell, president of River Twice Research and River Twice Capital Advisors, writes about Obama and his struggle to convince Congress to allow him to declare war on Syria. His main focus though is on how, after centuries of presidental power in situations of political distress, there is presently a shift from the imperialism of the presidency. He begins his essay by shedding light on the change in the political balance between the authority of the President and of Congress. He highlights the point that, in the past, when a situation called for drastic measures, the President could take the lead and choose the course America would take; but a turn of events has occurred as Obama recently turned to Congress 'to endorse a military strike on Syria'. Karabell comments that, at some points in history, the imperial presidency has been justifiable, especially after the attacks of 9/11 where America reponded by launching a war on terror. He continues this thought by commenting on how hard it has been to balance the power between Congress and Presidents after this War on Terror butalso states its necessity when he says, "But it is equally vital to pare those back when they are no longer required -- though this is easier said than done. People do not cede power easily, and bureaucracies are far easier to construct than dismantle." Even though President Obama did follow what is said in the American Constitution by turning to Congress, his decision has been denounced by many. This denouncement comes from the assumption that the president should take the lead and act against the chemical attacks in Syria. Karabell continues by talking about the situation in America, looking at the position its military is in and looking at the possible outcomes of war. He finishes his article by commenting on how imperial presidency has left America as the intervener in global situations when he states,"The very expectation that the United States must do something throughout the world feeds the domestic expansion of presidential powers. But while those powers grow, the ability and willingness of Americans to act as the global policeman and enforcer is erratic at best." 

This article although informative is tinged with argumentation. Karabell is deliberate in his wording conveying his information well. He is clear and effective in his arguments refraining from leaning towards either side by presenting information supporting either side. He seemingly does not root for either side, his unbiased stance is evident when he shows support for different aspects of imperialistic presidency and the waning of the Presidents power. His tone complements the severity of the essays topic, it is serious and unbiased. Even though he does not provide his stance on whether or not America should start the war, he presents sufficient background information for the reader to create their own opinion. He supported his evidence with historical facts along with quotes from prominent political figures. The image used in this article supports his essay by giving the reader perspective on who is being talked about and by showing the power the president already holds. Karabell is also very straight forward, his evidence is clear and concise. Although he does not have an explicit thesis, his essay is fluid and stays to the point. He uses comparisons between facts which are of common knowledge to the reader, to create an inviting yet serious tone.              

http://www.theatlantic.com/politics/archive/2013/09/obama-and-the-end-of-the-imperial-presidency/279405/