Comments from [the ratification] debates generally show that the ratifiers understood presidential electors were to exercise their own judgment when voting.
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 »
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 »
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 »
The Supreme Court’s decision this week in Matal v. Tam sent a clear warning to government officials who seek to curtail speech
Supreme Court’s Ruling Against the PC Police Read More »
Legal commentators have spread a good deal of ink trying to show that the Constitution authorizes the enormous expansion of
The Define and Punish Clause doesn’t authorize vast federal power either Read More »
In this short essay, constitutional historian Rob Natelson thumbnails the three-centuries long history of “conventions of the states.” When delegations
The Convention of States in American History Read More »
Congress’s power to regulate immigration comes from the law of nations—the meaning of which many constitutional commentators are unfamiliar.
Where Congress’s Power to Regulate Immigration Comes From Read More »
