False Front

In False Front, Kenneth Lowande offers a nuanced look at presidential power, arguing that presidents often engage in symbolic actions rather than effective solutions due to the structural limitations of the US political system. While presidents frequently pursue executive actions to attract attention and satisfy key constituencies, these efforts can lead to a focus on appearances over results, ultimately impacting public trust and governmental effectiveness. Drawing on extensive research, the book reveals that the true power of the presidency lies in what presidents can get away with not doing.