The two leading precedents in the English speaking world both reinforced dictionary definitions: Electors were to think for themselves.
The Electoral College is not part of the U.S. government, nor are the electors government officials.
During the founding era, election rules were said to fix the “manner of election” . . . This term embraced . . . five categories.
Electoral College Rules Made Simple (or, rather, less complicated)—2nd in a Series Read More »
The delegates . . . found the question of how to choose the federal executive one of the most perplexing they faced. People who want to abolish the Electoral College usually are unfamiliar with how perplexing the issue was—and still is.
Why Did the Framers Create the Electoral College?—1st in a Series Read More »
[I]t became clear the ERA was a poorly-drafted measure that would do little for women’s rights. It would have transferred massive amounts of power away from local governments and elected representatives, handing it instead to lawyers, judges, and bureaucrats.
This much is clear: John Dickinson receives much more of our national gratitude than we have given him.
The most ‘underrated’ founder’s influence on America’s Constitution Read More »
Any states that allowed the federal government to interfere in their sovereign jurisdiction would be guilty of a breach of trust, for the “trustees or servants of the several states” were obliged to protect the authority citizens had placed in them.
Fifth (and last) in a Series: John Dickinson and the Ratification of the Constitution Read More »
The list of constitutional provisions impacted by Dickinson is a very long one.
Fourth in a Series: John Dickinson’s Contributions to the Constitution Read More »
Dickinson was one of the few to free his own slaves during his lifetime.
Third in a Series: John Dickinson During the Continental and Confederation Periods Read More »
This year marks the 250th anniversary of one of the most influential series of writings in American history.
First In a Series: John Dickinson Comes Into Prominence Read More »
So when is local control good in reality rather than merely as a slogan?
State protection for citizen rights should temper ‘local control’ Read More »
The Founders erected the American legal system to operate in the context of Anglo-American judicial values. The rules placed expressly or implicitly in the Constitution . . . were designed to operate in that context. However, the context changed.
Part I: Judicial activism: Here’s a core reason for it you’ve never heard about Read More »
