Rutgers Model Congress 2024

We are very excited to see you at RMC 2024 this spring. 

The theme of the conference this year is examining the growth of presidential power. Undeniably, the role of our Commander in Chief has changed dramatically since the dawn of the nation. Sometimes little by little, and sometimes in great leaps, the individual in charge of our country has molded what it means to be President. They have increasingly exercised new avenues of control that go beyond the office’s enumerated duties. Expansion of signing statements, increases in vetoes, and extension of emergency powers are traits consistent across our last 4 presidents. Critics of an expanded executive point to other ways that the office is larger than ever: growth in unnecessary bureaucracy, extensive foreign involvement and an out-of-control surveillance state.

I did not select this theme with the mission of convincing attendees to be in favor or against a growing executive. Instead, I just want students to ask themselves some questions as they go through these conference simulations. How has the relationship between Congress and the Executive changed? What impact does the President’s expanded role have on the relationship between the federal government and state’s rights?

As this conference is happening in the upward swing of the election cycle, we’ve tried to ensure that our committees this year cover as many important political conversations as we can manage. This theme asks delegates not to forget the forest for the trees, and to keep in mind the watchful eyes of the Oval Office with final say over all of their legislation. We hope this is a conference to remember.

I hope that the tireless effort of the RMC staff shines through in all the committee experiences of those in attendance. Please do not hesitate to reach out to us with any feedback or questions at [email protected]. 

I can’t wait to see you all there.

Sincerely,

Charles Strehlo
Executive Director
RMC 2024

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