When the framers created the presidency, they were intent on solving two trust-related problems. One problem was how to harness political competition for the public good without the polarizing consequences…
Blog
Thanksgiving 2022
Here’s why we are grateful this Thanksgiving!
Republic or Democracy?
Is the US a republic or democracy? Find out here!
November 8 is Election Day
Nov. 8 is the last day to vote!
Short Course on Federalism
What is federalism? What are the pros & cons? Learn here!
Economic Value of the Republic
Is the economy tied to the state of democracy in our republic? Find out here!
The Value of Free & Fair Elections
The people who best know the value of free and fair elections are those who spent time living without them.
No Consequences from Fear-mongering?
No consequences to fear-mongering?
Constitution day 2022
Should it be easy to change the Constitution?
In Places Like These …
What is politics like in places like Cambodia and Nicaragua?
Loyal Opposition
What’s the value of a loyal opposition?
Know-Nothings & Bloody Monday
Could this happen again?
Pop Quiz: 1 or 52?
Is it 1 or 52? Click here to find out!
The Last Line in the Declaration of Independence
What is in the last line in the Declaration of Independence? Find out here!
A History Lesson
What happened on August 6, and why does it matter? Find out here!
Two Ideas for Unprecedented Times
Two surprising ideas to help us get through unprecedented times. Click here!
Juneteenth
History of Juneteenth
Governance in Hard Times
What kind of government handles tough times best? Find out here!
Fear and Fear-Mongering
What are the signs of fear-mongering? How can we fight fear? Find out here!
Memorial Day
Showing respect for those who fought, even when they fought and killed those on your side is hard – and necessary. When a women’s memorial association in Columbus, Mississippi, decorated…
Problem-Solving is Still Possible
Bipartisan problem-solving in Oregon? Find out why & how here!
Competing Rights
How should a republic deal with competing rights? Is there a good answer? Find out here!
Unconstitutional
What does it mean when something is unconstitutional? Why does it matter? Find out here!
On Spring Break!
We will be back. Until then, be good, and be good to each other.
Federalism & Polarization
What aspect of federalism could impact polarization? Find out here!
Federalism & Tyranny
Does American federalism promote or prevent tyranny? Find out here!
Federalism & Unequal States
How does federalism affect equality between states? Find out here!
Federalism & Trust
Can federalism impact trust? Find out here!
The President’s War Powers
What are the president’s war powers? Find that out – and more – here!
Neither Sport Nor War
Which is the better metaphor for politics – sports or war? Find out here!