What are some reasons why the President was given almost unlimited military powers? What are some possible positive and negative effects resulting from the scope of the President's military power?

The effective conduct of a war requires a strict obediance of a chain of command. The president is the Commander In Chief. The legislature has only budgetary powers. We are witnessing the effects of this struggle at this time.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/President_of_the_United_States

Here's a good place to read more about the US President and his powers. DrWLS is right -- there's a struggle going on right now, and it's an interesting one to watch.

=)

Congress gave President Bush almost unlimited military powers because he convinced it and most voters that we were seriously threatened by Iraq. In our fear of another terrorist attack, we believed that the president had information that would help us prevent another 9/11. It's become apparent, though, that Iraq was not a threat and many people believe that Bush has drastically abused the powers conferred on him.

The President does not have unlimited military power.

If we're speaking of what 9-11 brought about, the President "has broad constitutional power to take military action in response to the terrorist attacks on the United States on September 11, 2001. Congress has acknowledged this inherent executive power in both the War Powers Resolution and the Joint Resolution passed by Congress on September 14, 2001.

The President has constitutional power not only to retaliate against any person, organization, or State suspected of involvement in terrorist attacks on the United States, but also against foreign States suspected of harboring or supporting such organizations.

The President may deploy military force preemptively against terrorist organizations or the States that harbor or support them, whether or not they can be linked to the specific terrorist incidents of September 11. " (US Department of Justice report "The President's Constitutional Authority to Conduct Military Operations Against Terrorists and Nations Supporting Them" Sept 25, 2001)

Because of the way the constitution was written, Congress does not necessarily have to declaire war for military operations to be carried out through the commander in chief. But an actual declaration of war did not always take place in history when battles were fought internationally.

Where the President has control of the military like this is when the US is in an Emergency Situation. And some may or may not disagree with what that emergency situation is, but one cannot deny that right is there for the President to use. (Like many people against the war try to claim).

It's apparent to many that the Iraqi government was a terrorist government. Read up on the Halabja attack sometimes and see how Iraq handled things in a terrorist fashion. And already hating the US/looking like a hero for standing up to the "Western World" as well as the fact that, even after Operation Desert Storm, President Clinton still had to fire missles at Iraq, leaves us to believe that both sides of the political party viewed Hussein as a threat - and for good reasons.

Hope this helps some!
Matt

The reasons why the President was given almost unlimited military powers can be explained by looking at the constitutional powers and the dynamics of national security.

Firstly, as stated in the U.S. Constitution, the President is designated as the Commander-in-Chief of the military. This means that they have the ultimate authority and responsibility in making decisions regarding the use of military force. This authority is granted to the President because the effective conduct of a war requires strict obedience to a chain of command.

Secondly, during times of war or national security threats, there is often a need for quick decision-making and swift military action. Limiting the President's powers in such situations could lead to delays and hinder the ability to effectively respond to threats. Giving the President broad powers in these circumstances allows for a more streamlined decision-making process.

However, it is important to note that the President does not have unlimited military power, as checks and balances are in place. The U.S. Constitution also grants powers to Congress - specifically, the power to declare war. While Congress has not declared war since World War II, they still maintain the power to authorize the use of military force and to oversee the President's actions.

Now, let's discuss the possible positive and negative effects resulting from the scope of the President's military power.

Positive effects:
1. Swift and decisive action: The President's ability to make quick decisions and take immediate action can be beneficial in situations where a rapid response is required to protect national security or respond to a crisis.
2. Strong leadership: Having a clearly defined authority and chain of command can help provide a sense of strong leadership and coordination within the military.

Negative effects:
1. Lack of oversight: Unlimited military powers can lead to a lack of proper checks and balances, potentially resulting in abuses of power or miscalculations.
2. Potential for misuse: The concentration of military power in the hands of a single individual can raise concerns about potential authoritarianism or the use of force for personal or political gain.
3. Strategic decision-making: It is important to ensure that military decisions are made strategically and in accordance with long-term national interests. If the President's powers are not properly regulated, there is a risk of short-term decision-making that may not align with broader strategic goals.

In conclusion, the President's almost unlimited military powers are rooted in the need for effective command and control during times of war or national security threats. While this allows for quick decision-making, it also raises concerns about accountability and the potential for misuse or abuse of power. Striking the right balance between executive authority and congressional oversight is an ongoing challenge in ensuring the effective and responsible use of military power.

There are several reasons why the President was given almost unlimited military powers. One reason is that the effective conduct of war requires a strict obedience to a chain of command, and the President, as the Commander-in-Chief, needs to have the authority and power to make quick decisions and take necessary actions to protect the country. Another reason is that the President is responsible for the national security and defense of the country, and having extensive military powers allows the President to respond to any threats or attacks promptly.

However, the scope of the President's military power can have both positive and negative effects. Some positive effects include the ability to swiftly respond to national security threats, protect the country's interests abroad, and ensure the safety of its citizens. It allows for a decisive and unified approach in times of emergency or war.

On the other hand, there are negative effects that can arise from the President's expansive military power. One potential negative effect is the potential for abuse of power, as it gives the President the ability to unilaterally make decisions without sufficient checks and balances. This can lead to the misuse of military force or involvement in unnecessary conflicts. It can also undermine the role of Congress in the decision-making process and lead to an imbalance of power between the branches of government.

In conclusion, the President was given almost unlimited military powers to ensure effective national defense and security. While this can have positive effects in terms of quick decision-making and protection of the country, it can also have negative effects such as the potential for abuse of power and disregarding checks and balances.