How Presidential power has evolved since America’s founding

On this episode: Constitutional scholar Sai Prakash of the University of Virginia joins us to explore the origins, evolution, and modern realities of presidential power. Drawing on historical debates from the Constitutional Convention, Prakash outlines how early framers envisioned a limited executive—primarily tasked with enforcing laws—and how that vision has shifted over time. 

Prakash and our Host, Norm Leahy, examine landmark developments including the rise of popular mandates, the use of emergency declarations, expansions of war powers, and the increasing use of executive action in areas where Congress has not legislated. Prakash also discusses the courts’ role in interpreting executive authority, the limits of congressional oversight in the polarized era we find ourselves in today, and the potential for constitutional or statutory reforms. Whether you're curious about originalism, the concept of an “imperial presidency,” or how different branches of government interact today, this episode offers a wide-ranging look at one of the central tensions in American governance.

***On The Ballot is a conversational podcast featuring interviews with guests across the political spectrum. The views and opinions expressed by them are solely their own and are not representative of the views of the host or Ballotpedia as a whole.***

• Check out our page on America’s founding document: https://ballotpedia.org/United_States_Constitution 

• Explore Prakash’s work and scholarship: https://www.law.virginia.edu/faculty/profile/sp5mm/1200266 

• Learn more about the current executive branch of government: https://ballotpedia.org/Executive_Branch 

This year, we're hoping to learn more about our audience and what topics you want us to tackle. Complete a brief 5 minute survey to review the show and share some feedback: https://forms.gle/zPxYSog5civyvEKX6 

Sign up for our Newsletters: https://ballotpedia.org/Ballotpedia_Email_Updates 

Stream "On the Ballot" on Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you have questions, comments, or love for BP, feel free to reach out at ontheballot@ballotpedia.org or on X (formerly Twitter) @Ballotpedia.