Author: Eleanor Stratton
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Constitutional Tax Limits
The taxing power granted to Congress is a cornerstone of the United States’ constitutional framework. This authority, embedded in Article I, Section 8, Clause 1 of the U.S. Constitution, provides Congress with the means to generate revenue and shape national policy. Understanding the distinctions between direct and indirect taxes, as well as the judicial interpretations…
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State Nullification of Federal Laws
The doctrine of nullification has played a significant role in shaping the balance of power between state and federal authority in the United States. From early resistance to the Alien and Sedition Acts to modern debates over healthcare and immigration, nullification remains a contentious issue. Understanding its historical context and legal implications offers valuable insights…
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Constitutional Rights Non-Citizens
Consular discretion in visa decisions has long been a cornerstone of U.S. immigration policy. Recent rulings by the Supreme Court have reinforced this principle, emphasizing the significant authority vested in consular officers. This raises important questions about the balance between national security and individual rights, particularly for American families affected by these decisions. Consular Discretion…
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Top 5 Supreme Court Cases on Religious Liberty
1. Kennedy v. Bremerton School District (2022) The Supreme Court ruled 6-3 in favor of Joseph Kennedy, a high school football coach who engaged in public prayers on the 50-yard line after games. The Court determined that Kennedy’s actions constituted private speech rather than government speech, even though they occurred on school premises during official…
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Term Limits: Founders’ Intent
Term limits have long been a subject of debate in American politics, rooted deeply in the nation's early history. From the Articles of Confederation to the Constitutional Convention, the discussion around limiting the tenure of lawmakers has evolved, reflecting concerns about power, corruption, and effective governance. This article examines the historical context, arguments for and…
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Presidential Influence on the Fed
The Federal Reserve’s Role and Mechanisms The Federal Reserve, the central bank of the United States, plays a crucial role in managing the nation’s monetary policy. Its primary objectives are maximum employment and stable prices. How does the Fed work towards these goals? The Fed employs several tools: The Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meets…
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Top 5 Constitutional Issues Today
The U.S. Constitution establishes a framework for governance that balances power and liberty. This document delineates roles for federal and state governments, outlines the judiciary's authority, defines executive powers, regulates campaign finance, addresses individual rights versus national security concerns, and protects the right to bear arms. Each aspect contributes to maintaining our constitutional republic's integrity…
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Thomas Paine’s Influence on the Constitution
Thomas Paine and John Adams presented contrasting visions for the structure of government during the formative years of the United States. Their differing perspectives offer insights into the foundational debates that shaped American governance. By examining their ideas, we can better understand the principles that continue to influence political thought today. Paine’s Vision of Government…
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NFIB v. Sebelius: Commerce Clause Analysis
Historical Context of the Commerce Clause The years following the Declaration of Independence and leading up to the Constitution's adoption were marked by economic and political challenges. States implemented divergent policies, particularly concerning debtor relief laws and trade barriers, creating economic fragmentation. The federal Congress, under the Articles of Confederation, lacked authority to negotiate trade…
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Trump 2nd Assassination Attempt: Constitutional Perspective
Secret Service Agent Thwarts Assassination Attempt on Former President Trump On a Sunday afternoon at Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach, Florida, a Secret Service agent noticed a rifle barrel in the tree line near the sixth green. The agent fired at Ryan Wesley Routh around 1:31 p.m. ET, causing him to flee…