Donald Trump's Use of Emergency Powers

SOURCE www.npr.org
Donald Trump invoked emergency powers more times in his first 100 days in office than any other modern president. Legal experts worry about the upending of the constitutional balance of power and the expansion of unlimited executive power. Trump's use of emergency powers has primarily focused on domestic priorities to bypass Congress.

Key Points

  • Trump invoked emergency powers 8 times in his first 100 days, more than any other modern president
  • Legal challenges to Trump's emergency orders may reach the Supreme Court
  • Emergency powers are a bit scary as they give the president legal leeway not approved by Congress

Pros

  • Allows quick action in rare moments of crisis
  • Provides flexibility for the president to act swiftly in emergencies

Cons

  • May upend the constitutional balance of power
  • Could lead to an expansion of unlimited executive power