Political power

Political power

Political power is the ability of one (political actor) to shape or control the political behavior of others. From a government’s perspective, it is the ability of the government of the day to effect desired compliance to policies, laws, and regulations set. Without this power, it would be very difficult to force or manipulate people to act in a certain way.

The 1952 constitution of Puerto Rico establishes a republican form of government with three separate powers namely the Executive, Legislative and Judicial.

The Governor is the head of government in Puerto Rico, citizens of Puerto Rico elect the governor every four years in a general election. With the approval of the senate, the governor has the power to nominate appellate judges, supreme court justices, agency heads, and public corporation directors.

The executive branch of government has the sole mandate of maintaining law and order and enforcing policies passed by the legislature.

The Legislature has the power to make laws that govern Puerto Rico, it also controls the finances through financial bills and amendments.

The judiciary has the power to interpret and decide questions of Puerto Rican law. Article V of the constitution vests the judicial power in the supreme court which is the highest court in Puerto Rico.

Society derives many benefits through political power as elected officials aim to fulfill their promises to their electorates, community programs such as affordable healthcare, improving infrastructure, and provision of learning centers are just some of the projects brought about by politicians. Political machinery also is responsible for divisions in society since citizens tend to be divided along political lines.

Taxation and other governing rules and regulations are also as a result of political power exercised to civilians.

References

Rose, N., & Miller, P. (1992). Political power beyond the state: Problematics of government. British journal of sociology, 173-205.

Morris, N. (1995). Puerto Rico: Culture, politics, and identity. Praeger/Greenwood.