blank slate accompanied by the framers' expectations that he would define the job. He proceeded to do exactly that, setting the outline of the Presidency for generations to come. He welcomed the ceremonial role, believing that it helped enhance the role of the Presidency in leading the nation and not just the government. He governed as the benevolent leader, staying above the fray and avoiding even the hint of partisanship.
Ultimately, maintaining that aloofness proved impossible because of disputes among his cabinet members, specifically Secretary of Treasury Alexander Hamilton (a Federalist) and Secretary of State Thomas Jefferson (a Democratic-Republican). Both left the Washington Administration after his first term, but they remained influential.
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