Cato Daily Podcast To Shrink Government, DOGE Needs Congress
Feb 17, 2025
Gene Healy, Senior Vice President for Policy at the Cato Institute, brings his libertarian expertise to discuss the hurdles facing government downsizing. He emphasizes the need for Congressional support to implement effective reform rather than relying solely on executive action. The conversation highlights concerns about the expanding power of the presidency and explores historical limitations on executive authority. Healy also critiques the centralization of power and advocates for structural reforms to promote better governance.
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Presidential Power Creep
- Presidential power has expanded beyond its intended scope.
- Many policy decisions now hinge on who wins the election, impacting everything from minor regulations to fundamental governance issues.
Executive Orders' Expanding Impact
- Thirty years ago, executive orders had less impact on daily life, focusing on niche issues.
- Now, they decide everything from school library books to car types and even medical care for minors.
Dangers of Concentrated Power
- Concentrating power in the presidency is dangerous.
- High stakes in elections make peaceful transitions of power harder.