POSTED RESPONSE TO A COLUMN BY ZACHARY ROTH IN THE GUARDIAN
The real question here is why do presidents have this ridiculously abusive power?
It's just one of many outdated, anti-democratic provisions in the American Constitution.
The idea was taken from the power of kings at the time, many of the Founders favoring a presidency which closely resembled a monarchy.
It's long past time for this provision to be changed, but I doubt anyone will make the tremendous effort it takes to change the Constitution in the least matter.