TR was a follower of the British method of political executives: the executive can do anything not specifically prohibited by law. The German method of political executives: the executive can only do what is specifically provided for by law.
Judging TR, or any historical figure, by today’s standards, is misguided. He took over the Presidency at a time when a rapid expansion had created circumstances where the Federal Government HAD to step in. No food inspection, no child labor laws, widespread government corruption, particulary at the local level, unbelievable and unsafe living and working conditions, no enforcement of anti monopoly/trust laws; I could go on. TR did what needed to be done. A woefully ineducated populace was NOT equipped to take on any of these tasks. We could debate this all day, but know this; comparing TR and his actions as President and the atmosphere under which he governed to LBJ and the atmosphere under which he governed is simply ridiculous.