Abstract

The separated system is designed for competitive invention and reinvention. Leeway is featured as a potential benefit for agenda setting, an inherently speculative activity. Presidents are well placed to certify agenda issues, to declare “Let's start here.” Often lacking overwhelming political capital, they perform this role most effectively by taking advantage of the leeway offered by separated institutions competing for shares of powers. The frequency of split‐party government in the postwar period has encouraged greater attention to leeway. Viewing competition in agenda setting as opportunity may appear counterintuitive. But that attribute exhibits the reinventive nature of a separated powers system. These points are illustrated with reference to the Clinton administration.

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