Podcasts about state constitutions

The American Democracy Minute Radio News Report & Podcast for June 12, 2026Florida Supreme Court Allows Latest Gerrymandered Congressional Map, Again Ignoring the State Constitution's Fair Maps Amendment Florida's Supreme Court denied an emergency request by a pro-voter group June 10th to pause Governor Ron DeSantis' congressional redistricting map. The gerrymandered map, likely flipping four liberal-leaning districts conservative, will now likely be in place for the midterm election.Some podcasting platforms strip out our links.  To read our resources and see the whole script of today's report, please go to our website at https://AmericanDemocracyMinute.orgToday's LinksArticles & Resources:Florida Phoenix - DeSantis signs legislation making new congressional map officialFlorida Phoenix - Florida Supreme Court rejects emergency petition to stop DeSantis' redistricted congressional mapSupreme Court of Florida (via Democracy Docket) - Equal Ground Education Fund, Inc., v.Secretary, Florida Department of State Related ADM Reports:American Democracy Minute - Florida Governor Ron DeSantis Signs Redistricting Bill with Four More GOP Seats; Illinois and New York Contemplate a ResponseAmerican Democracy Minute - Gerrymandering Arms Race Update:  FL Gov. Ron DeSantis Unveils Congressional Redistricting Plan, Gerrymandering 4 Additional GOP SeatsGroups Taking Action:Equal GroundRegister or Check Your Voter Registration:U.S. Election Assistance Commission – How to Register And Vote in Your State Please follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Bluesky Social, and SHARE! Find all of our reports at AmericanDemocracyMinute.orgSubscribe for FREE at Apple Podcasts, Spotify and most podcasting platforms.Are you a radio station?  Find our broadcast files at Pacifica Radio Network's Audioport and PRX#NewsAlerts #AmericanDemocracy #Florida #FairMapsAmendment #FLSupremeCourt #PartisanGerrymandering #TrumpGerrymandering

Edward J. Larson explains that the formal signing of the Declaration of Independence marked a permanent break with monarchy. New state constitutions prioritized popular sovereignty, establishing the rule of law as the foundation of the Republic. (16/16)1789 TRENTON BRIDGE

Live May 18, 2026 | Yaron Brook Show(Bonus Episode Season 12, Episode 10)Protecting Freedom in the Courts -- Conversation with Joshua Windham | Yaron Brook ShowCan the Courts Still Defend Freedom? Joshua Windham on ICE, Surveillance, Property Rights & the Future of LibertyWhat happens when government power collides with individual rights? And are America's courts still willing to defend freedom when it matters most?In this bonus episode of the Yaron Brook Show, Yaron sits down with Institute for Justice senior attorney Joshua Windham to discuss ICE detentions, government surveillance, property rights, economic liberty, and the growing battle over the Fourth Amendment.From wrongful detentions and warrantless searches to attacks on economic freedom, this conversation explores how fragile liberty becomes when courts defer to government power — and why state constitutions may become the next major defense of individual rights.The episode also dives into constitutional interpretation, judicial philosophy, Scalia's legacy, asylum law, Weimar Germany parallels, and the future of the Supreme Court.If you care about freedom, constitutional limits, and the future of individual rights in America, this is a must-watch conversation.Watch Now: https://youtube.com/live/SXMjmDf0ClsAbout: Joshua Windham is a senior attorney at the Institute for Justice and co-director of IJ's Project on the Fourth Amendment. He specializes in constitutional litigation involving economic liberty, property rights, and government surveillance, and has won major state constitutional victories protecting individual rights in Pennsylvania and Tennessee.Learn more about Joshua Windham here: https://ij.org/staff/joshua-windham/Learn more about the Institute for Justice: https://ij.org/Main Discussion0:00 — Why the Courts Matter More Than Ever0:43 — Introduction & Welcoming Joshua Windham1:42 — Inside the Institute for Justice4:06 — ICE Rights Violations & the Upcoming Supreme Court Case9:52 — The Repeated Detentions of Leo Garcia Venegas12:16 — Constitutional Limits on Law Enforcement19:01 — How Common Are Wrongful Detentions?21:15 — Government Surveillance & Fourth Amendment Battles26:44 — State Constitutions & Property Rights28:01 — Can the Supreme Court Be Challenged on Surveillance?30:45 — Building Legal Precedents Against Government Overreach40:10 — Legislation vs Litigation: Where Change Happens41:47 — Why Economic Freedom Gets Less Protection Than Speech47:41 — Real Estate Licensing & the Right to Earn a Living51:27 — Economic Liberty Cases & State Courts55:30 — Why Individual Rights Still Matter56:02 — Rationality, Philosophy & the Judiciary58:27 — The Difficulty of Legislative TestimonyLive Audience Questions59:26 — Is There a Better Constitutional Method Than Textualism or “Living Constitution”?1:03:21 — First Supreme Court Argument: Advice for a Young Attorney1:06:34 — Convenience vs Privacy: Can Surveillance Tech Be Ethical?1:07:51 — Are Courts Standing Up to Trump?1:10:03 — Weimar Germany: Why Didn't the Courts Stop Tyranny?1:10:41 — Birthright Citizenship & Constitutional Interpretation1:12:03 — Should Judges Go Beyond the Arguments Presented?1:15:36 — Voting Rights Act & Recent Court Rulings1:16:16 — The Origins of the Exclusionary Rule1:18:04 — How Lawyers Can Improve Legal Writing1:20:32 — Antonin Scalia & the Fourth Amendment1:23:49 — Which State Supreme Courts Are Most Interesting?1:27:33 — Is This the Most Pro-Free Speech Supreme Court Ever?1:30:39 — The Current State of Asylum Law1:31:31 — Should the Eighth Amendment Have More Teeth?1:37:08 — Should the Supreme Court Expand?1:38:10 — More Questions in the Pinned Comment#Constitution #SupremeCourt #FourthAmendment #PropertyRights #EconomicFreedom #GovernmentSurveillance #IndividualRights #InstituteForJustice #FreeSpeech #capitalism #ObjectivismThe Yaron Brook Show is Sponsored by [The Ayn Rand Institute](https://www.aynrand.org/starthere)[Energy Talking Points, featuring AlexAI, by Alex Epstein](https://alexepstein.substack.com/)[Express VPN](https://www.expressvpn.com/yaron)[Hendershott Wealth Management](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X4lfC...) &(https://hendershottwealth.com/ybs/)[Michael Williams & The Defenders of Capitalism Project](https://www.DefendersOfCapitalism.com)[Support the Show](  / yaronbrookshow  )[Sponsor the Show](askyaron@yaronbrookshow.com/)[One-time donation](https://bit.ly/2RZOyJJ)Join the [Yaron Brook Show YouTube channel](   / @yaronbrook  )  Like what you hear? Like, share, and subscribe to stay updated on new videos and help promote the [Yaron Brook Show](https://bit.ly/3ztPxTx)Continue the discussion by following Yaron on [Twitter](https://bit.ly/3iMGl6z) and [Facebook](https://bit.ly/3vvWDDC )Want to learn more about Ayn Rand and Objectivism? Visit the [Ayn Rand Institute](https://bit.ly/35qoEC3)Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/yaron-brook-show--3276901/support.Yaron is the executive chairman of the Ayn Rand Institute and a world class speaker. He is the coauthor of the national best-seller Free Market Revolution: How Ayn Rand's Ideas Can End Big Government, Equal is Unfair: America's Misguided Fight Against Income Inequality and In Pursuit of Wealth: The Moral Case for Finance. He speaks around the world on a variety of topics including the morality of capitalism, Ayn Rand and her philosophy, finance and economics, and the value of inequality.

Originalism has quickly become the leading approach to interpreting the U.S. Constitution, drawing from the work of Justice Antonin Scalia and others over the past three decades. But what place does originalism have in the states? State constitutions often contain unique provisions that have no federal analogue. Take Alaska's unique constitutional provision empowering grand juries to investigate matters of public welfare and safety and to issue reports. This power falls outside the traditional role grand juries play and raises interesting questions. Recent scholarship published by the Harvard Journal of Law & Public Policy explores the text, history, and tradition behind this provision, offering a window into how originalism might operate differently at the state level. What lessons can be drawn about the similarities between originalist interpretation of state constitutions and the federal constitution? Does originalism look different from state to state and between state and federal governments? How might judges and scholars take up the originalist mantle and shed light on other underexplored state constitutional provisions? Join our panel of experts as they explore how originalism is playing out in the states. Featuring:Dr. Nicholas Cole, Senior Research Fellow, Pembroke College, University of Oxford; Director, the Quill ProjectHon. Stephen Cox, Attorney General, AlaskaProf. Richard Garnett, Paul J. Schierl Professor of Law, University of Notre Dame Law SchoolSavannah Shoffner, J.D. Candidate, Notre Dame Law School(Moderator) Hon. John D. Couriel, Justice, Florida Supreme Court(Introducer) Sean-Michael Pigeon, Editor-in-Chief, Harvard Journal of Law & Public Policy

On Nov. 3, Wisconsin voters can expect a ballot question about diversity, equity and inclusion. If passed, it would amend the state constitution.

In the State of Colorado, the couple hundred rivers and several thousand streams are extremely popular for fishing, boating, swimming, all the river things. And while people typically have access to these waterways, the laws on access in the state are not clear and could potentially lock up access when rivers run next to and through private property. Currently two groups are working to secure access for river users and a film, "Common Waters," explores a recent interaction between a landowner and a fisherman that is leveraging a push for legal clarity around this access. Two guests join us to talk through the topic: Hattie Johnson from American Whitewater, and Cody Perry from Rig to Flip.    GUESTS Hattie Johnson from American Whitewater Cody Perry from Rig to Flip Thumbnail pic:  Cody Perry, Rig to Flip RESOURCESFilm: "Common Waters" White paper on Wading and navigability in Colorado Article on opposition to stream access in Colorado Donate to Colorado Access Fund THE 2 GROUPS WORKING ON ACCESS   Responsible River Recreation Alliance (Hattie Johnson & AW) Send a letter to your Colorado lawmaker supporting safe and legal river passageFacebookInstagram   Colorado Stream Access Coalition (Cody Perry & Rig to Flip) Sign the Petition for boating and fishing/wading access   SPONSORSNRS NRS PFD for Whale Foundation Whale Foundation   PREVIOUS RIVER RADIUS EPISODES ON TOPIC New Mexico's Fenced Off Rivers (Apple Podcast) New Mexico's Fenced Off Rivers (Spotify)   THE RIVER RADIUSWebsiteRunoff signup (episode newsletter)InstagramFacebookApple PodcastSpotifyLink Tree

Barry Erwin joins Ian Hoch to talk about the five constitutional amendments are on Louisiana's May 16 ballot.

April 29, 2026 ~ Eric Lupher, President of the Citizens Research Council of Michigan discusses the possibility of a constitutional convention that will be on the ballot this year. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, scholars Nicholas Cole and Robert Williams examine how American constitutional democracy is rooted in the crafting of Revolutionary-era state constitutions. Beginning in May 1776, Americans gave independence meaning by writing state constitutions, experimenting with self-government, and rooting political authority in the people. Cole and Williams explore this critical and often overlooked chapter of the founding era and how these early state constitutions shaped ideas about rights, government, and limits on power, helping to define the nation's constitutional tradition and set its trajectory for generations to come. Julie Silverbrook, chief content and learning officer at the National Constitution Center, moderates. Resources Nicholas Cole, Quill Project  Robert Williams, The Law of American State Constitutions (2023)  Constitution of New Hampshire (January 5, 1776)  Constitution of South Carolina (March 26, 1776)  Constitution of Virginia (June 29, 1776)  Constitution of New Jersey (July 2, 1776)  Constitution of Delaware (September 10, 1776)  Constitution of Pennsylvania (September 28, 1776)  Constitution of Maryland (November 11, 1776)  Constitution of North Carolina (December 18, 1776)  Constitution of Georgia (February 5, 1777)  Constitution of New York (April 20, 1777)  Constitution of Vermont (July 8, 1777)  Constitution of South Carolina (March 19, 1778)  Constitution of Massachusetts (June 15, 1780)  Constitution of Vermont (July 4, 1786)  Marbury v. Madison (1803)  Alison L. LaCroix, The Interbellum Constitution: Union, Commerce, and Slavery in the Age of Federalisms (2024)  Gordon S. Wood, The Creation of the American Republic, 1776-1787 (1998)  Stay Connected and Learn More Questions or comments about the show? Email us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠podcast@constitutioncenter.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Continue the conversation by following us on social media @ConstitutionCtr Explore the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠America at 250 Civic Toolkit⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Sign up⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to receive Constitution Weekly, our email roundup of constitutional news and debate Subscribe, rate, and review wherever you listen Join us for an upcoming ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠live program⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or watch recordings on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Support our important work ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Donate

12. The Signing of Sovereignty and Revolutionary Dissent Guest: Ed Larson Summary: Details the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the adoption of radical state constitutions asserting that people alone are sovereign. Larson also explores honorable dissent through the perspective of wealthy planter John Dickinson. (13)19333 VALLEY FORGE STATION

Wisconsin's Spring Election is April 7, and the most high-profile race is the State Supreme Court seat vacated by conservative judge Rebecca Bradley. So who better to talk with than someone who put the court at the center of an entire podcast season?“Right now, the liberals are in the majority of the court. So, there are seven seats on the court, liberals hold four of those.” That's how Sam Woods, producer and co-host of WUWM's Swing State of the Union, started his high-level explanation.“Now it doesn't quite work like a political party kind of thing,” he continued, “but when we're talking about cases like abortion rights or redistricting or cases that involve hot-button issues, it tends to kind of side with that ideological — liberals go one way, conservatives go another.”Woods and co-host Joy Powers focuses on 2025's expensive Supreme Court race for season two of Swing State of the Union, and now they're going even deeper into the court with two bonus episodes they're releasing in March, asking questions about accountability and interpretation of the State Constitution.A few weeks before the spring election, we talked with woods about the upcoming election and Wisconsin's highest court.#####Host: Kim ShineUniquely Milwaukee is made possible by the generous support of our members.

Should clean air and water be constitutional rights in Oregon? Advocates are pushing a new amendment that could appear on the 2028 ballot.

A 51–46 vote on March 10, 2026, passed Washington's so-called millionaires tax after Democrats rejected more than 70 Republican amendments, writes Leslie Lewallen of Future 42 Clark County. She argues the measure violates the State Constitution, fuels a business exodus, and creates a $3.5–4 billion general fund slush fund with no dedicated K-12 or kids' health dollars. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/opinion/opinion-my-thoughts-on-yesterdays-tragic-state-income-tax/ #WashingtonState #ClarkCounty #Politics #Opinion #IncomeTax #MillionairesTax #Future42 #Project42

Constitutional Scholar Rob Natelson discusses the bi-decennial vote in Montana, as required by our constitution, where voters can choose to call a state constitutional convention. The post State Constitution a Conumdrum? first appeared on Voices of Montana.

Abortion rights advocates are headed to trial next week to argue that Missouri's regulations on reproductive health care violate the state's constitution. The passage of Amendment 3 in 2024 protects the right to abortion care, but existing regulations and legal challenges have made access limited.

Many Alaskans are unaware of how public education unfolded in the history of the Great Land. Russian influences and a man named Sheldon Jackson created an environment that eventually led to a clause in our State Constitution intended to stop forced religious assimilation and unequal treatment of students.As you can read here, there was indeed justification for such language.  Today however, in an ironic turn of events, the forced assimilation is still occurring but in a way the founders of our state likely could not have seen or understood.Today, I'm fortunate to have a discussion with Greg Sarber on this history along with where we might be headed. Change is coming. Like it or not.I hope you can tune in.Support the show

Kinsella on Liberty Podcast: Episode 480. This is my talk at the Liberland Constitution Christmas Party Prague 2025, Dec. 19, 2025, based on the article below, which will be included in the book based on the proceedings, First Constitutional Convention of the Free Republic of Liberland, Vít Jedlička, ed. (Dec. 19, 2025; forthcoming). The transcript is also below. Pictures of the event may be be found at Prague 2025: Liberland Constitution Celebration: Photos; also Hoppe, Fusillo, Kinsella Speak at Liberland Constitution Celebration, and Vit's post at Facebook and my facebook post. This audio is from my iphone; video and better audio, and that of other talks, will be released in due course. Related: First Constitutional Convention of the Free Republic of Liberland, Vít Jedlička, ed. (Dec. 19, 2025; forthcoming) (google docs version) Liberland press release Liberland Prepares for a Historic Christmas Celebration and Constitutional Milestone Prague 2025: Liberland Constitution Celebration: Photos Liberland Constitution Christmas Party Prague 2025 Hoppe, Fusillo, Kinsella Speak at Liberland Constitution Celebration Fusillo on the Universal Principles of Liberty and Liberland KOL478 | Haman Nature Hn 185: The Universal Principles of Liberty KOL474 | Where The Common Law Goes Wrong (PFS 2025) Libertarian Nation and Related Projects KOL473 | The Universal Principles of Liberty, with Mark Maresca of The White Pillbox Announcing the Universal Principles of Liberty As noted in Liberland Constitution Christmas Party Prague 2025, despite my frequent criticisms of libertarian activists and activism over the years, and despite my preference for the theoretical side of things, I've been involved in various activist projects for over the years, including helping to draft early versions of the Liberland Constitution. (( The Voluntaryist Constitution. )) I've met Liberland's President, Vít Jedlička, and previous meetings of the Property and Freedom Society. At this year's PFS meeting, he invited me, Alessandro Fusillo, and Hans-Hermann Hoppe to the Liberland meeting in Prague this December. We did attend. It was a marvelous event. Related: My Failed Libertarian Speaking Hiatus; Memories of Mises Institute and Other Events, 1988–20192025 KOL345 | Kinsella's Libertarian “Constitution” or: State Constitutions vs. the Libertarian Private Law Code (PorcFest 2021) KOL359 | State Constitutions vs. the Libertarian Private Law Code (PFS 2021) The Liberland Constitution and Libertarian Principles Stephan Kinsella[*] Remarks prepared for the Liberland Christmas Party and Constitutional Reading, Prague, Dec. 19, 2025   I would like to discuss the issue of “constitutions” and states, and their relation to human freedom. I. Man, Action, and Freedom A. Acting Man A free society has long been the aspiration and dream of liberals of all types, including modern libertarians.[2] What exactly is freedom? To understand this we must understand the nature of human action in the world. Man finds himself in a world of scarcity and hardship, where nothing is guaranteed to him—neither food, nor shelter, nor safety, nor survival. Acting man is aware of his present state and the world around him, of the receding past, and the coming future. He lives in the present, always moving from the immediate past into the coming future. He constantly faces uneasiness in his present condition and about the future anticipates is coming. He is neither omnipotent nor omniscient, as implied by the existence of scarcity and uneasiness, and yet he can act: he can acquire knowledge: he can learn what ends are possible and what scarce means (resources) can cause things to happen. He can use his body, which he directly controls, and he can acquire and possess and use resources in the world by grappling with them using his body, to make things happen—to give rise to a different future than the one he foresees will arrive without his intervention.[3] Knowledge about the world—about causal laws, recipes, facts about the world and his environment, about possible ends he could choose and possible means he could employ—and the availability and employment of causally efficacious resources together make successful human action possible.[4] It makes possible the achievement of ends and the alleviation of felt uneasiness. By using one's mind and body it is possible to succeed, to achieve what Mises would term psychic proft.[5] B. Acting Man in Isolation For Crusoe on his island what concerns acting man is causal and technical knowledge, and knowledge about contingent facts in his world—and the availability of means of action. For him he may face wild animals, injury, lightning and storms and drought and disease, and any number of challenges, but the concept of freedom does not arise. There is only successful action, or profit, and life; and loss and failure, and death. C. Acting Man in Society With the presence of other people man, the social animal, can benefit from the comforts of society, from collective cooperation, from intercourse and trade, from the division and specialization of labor. But there is also the possibility of violent conflict over the use of the scarce means of action that are essential for successful human action. Other people are a potential benefit but also a potential threat. Perhaps because men are social animals have some empathy for others, and perhaps because they understand that violence is not productive, they prefer peaceful and productive use of resources, trade, and cooperation to violence, conflict, and strife.[6] Thus there tends to emerge in society the institution of property rights: widespread social respect for and mutual recognition of property rights rooted in original appropriation and contractual title transfer.[7] Unfortunately, this tends to give rise to an agency—the state—that claims the right to tax and to ultimate decision-making and law-making. As Hoppe notes, Let me begin with the definition of a state. What must an agent be able to do to qualify as a state? This agent must be able to insist that all conflicts among the inhabitants of a given territory be brought to him for ultimate decision-making or be subject to his final review. In particular, this agent must be able to insist that all conflicts involving himself be adjudicated by him or his agent. And implied in the power to exclude all others from acting as ultimate judge, as the second defining characteristic of a state, is the agent's power to tax: to unilaterally determine the price that justice seekers must pay for his services. Based on this definition of a state, it is easy to understand why a desire to control a state might exist. For whoever is a monopolist of final arbitration within a given territory can make laws. And he who can legislate can also tax. Surely, this is an enviable position.[8] The purpose of property rights, of justice, is to permit men to use their own bodies and peacefully acquired (meaning: acquired by original appropriation, which violates no one's rights as the resource is unowned; or by consensual contractual transfer from a previous owner, which also violates no one's rights as the owner consents to the transfer) scarce means without conflict from others. It is so that men are free to use their own bodies or resources without interference from others. II. Freedom in Society Thus terms like freedom and liberty denote a state of affairs where acting man is free to use his body and other scarce resources in the world without physical interference by others—without conflict. It refers to a world where men are free from interference by private trespassers and also free from institutionalized interference by a state. Freedom and liberty just mean the absence of aggression with private property rights. Ideally, a free society means having either no state at all or a minimal state (minarchy) restricted to preventing aggression defined in terms of property rights,[9] and in a society with a largely libertarian ethos and minimal private crime. In such a society there is widespread liberty because there is little private crime and little to no institutionalize crime. A. Freedom and State Aggression But we live in a world governed by non-minimal states. They control most habitable territory on the earth. They compel membership and payment of taxes and monopolize their services, outlawing competitors. By legislative decree, these states prohibit not only acts that are malum in se but acts that are merely malum prohibitum. Although the justification for the agency that polices crime is to reduce aggression by private trespassers, with the state there is more private crime than there would be otherwise, because states are necessarily inefficient an also because they criminalize non-criminal actions.[10] All states are, in fact, criminal (and even minimal states would be criminal, even if they managed to ever emerge); all states engage in institutionalized aggression against private property rights. As Hoppe notes: socialism, by no means an invention of nineteenth century Marxism but much older, must be conceptualized as an institutionalized interference with or aggression against private property and private property claims. Capitalism, on the other hand, is a social system based on the explicit recognition of private property and of nonaggressive, contractual exchanges between private property owners. Implied in this remark, as will become clear in the course of this treatise, is the belief that there must then exist varying types and degrees of socialism and capitalism, i.e., varying degrees to which private property rights are respected or ignored. Societies are not simply capitalist or socialist. Indeed, all existing societies are socialist to some extent. … Next to the concept of action, property is the most basic category in the social sciences.

Democrats in Olympia are doing their best to get around the State Constitution and impose an income tax. Giants kicker Younghoe Koe had an embarrasing gaffe on Monday Night Football. // Guest: Chris Sullivan on the newest blatant lie by Sound Transit.

The American Democracy Minute Radio News Report & Podcast for Nov. 13, 2025Utah Judge Rejects Legislature's Gerrymandered Congressional Map, Choosing a Map Which Follows the State Constitution InsteadIn October, the Utah legislature proposed yet another gerrymandered Congressional map which violated state constitutional rules for redistricting.   Nov. 10th, the judge overseeing the case rejected the legislature's map, choosing a constitutionally-compliant one instead.Some podcasting platforms strip out our links.  To read our resources and see the whole script of today's report, please go to our website at https://AmericanDemocracyMinute.orgToday's LinksArticles & Resources:American Democracy Minute - (2024) Utah Voters Fought Back After Their Fair Voting Districts Constitutional Amendment was Gutted by an Anti-Voter Legislature.  They Won. American Democracy Minute - After Losing in Court and at the Polls, Utah Legislature Approves Nov. Ballot Measure to Veto or Alter Citizen Ballot Measures to Protect Its PowerAmerican Democracy Minute - Judge Orders Utah to Immediately Draw New Congressional Map, After the Legislature Circumvented the Voters – and the State Constitution Utah News Dispatch - Redistricting ruling: Utah judge picks plaintiffs' congressional map, blocks Legislature's  Groups Taking Action: League of Women Voters UT, Mormon Women for Ethical Government, Campaign Legal CenterRegister or Check Your Voter Registration:U.S. Election Assistance Commission – How to Register And Vote in Your StatePlease follow us on Facebook and Bluesky Social, and SHARE! Find all of our reports at AmericanDemocracyMinute.orgWant ADM sent to your email?  Sign up here!Are you a radio station?  Find our broadcast files at Pacifica Radio Network's Audioport and PRX#News #Democracy  #DemocracyNews #Utah #BetterBoundariesUT #Proposition4 #Utah #LWVUT  #FairMaps

Sean Beienburg, Associate Professor at the School of Civic and Economic Thought and Leadership at Arizona State University (ASU) on a piece he published with his brother Matt at The Goldwater Institute, “Federalism and State Constitutions: Model Language for “Tenth Amendments” in State Constitutions.” A listener call-in proposing President Trump call Congress into special session. More protests are erupting against United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Feliks Banel's guest on this BONUS EPISODE of CASCADE OF HISTORY is Washington State Archivist Heather Hirotaka. Ms. Hirotaka joined the show from Spokane, where she had just escorted the original 1889 Washington State Constitution - on its first trip over the Cascades - for a special public event on Monday, September 15, 2025 from 3-5 p.m. at the Spokane Public Library in downtown Spokane. For more information the 1889 Washington State Constitution's Spokane Visit: https://www.sos.wa.gov/events/2025-09/constitution-viewing-spokane-public-library CASCADE OF HISTORY is broadcast LIVE most Sunday nights at 8pm Pacific Time via SPACE 101.1 FM in Seattle and gallantly streams everywhere via www.space101fm.org. The radio station broadcasts from studios at historic Magnuson Park – located in the former Master-at-Arms' quarters in the old Sand Point Naval Air Station - on the shores of Lake Washington in Seattle. Subscribe to the CASCADE OF HISTORY podcast via most podcast platforms and never miss regular weekly episodes of Sunday night broadcasts as well as frequent bonus episodes.

Mike Ferguson in the Morning - If you have the money, you can change our State Constitution - that needs to change - How do Missouri Colleges rank on Free Speech?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Abortion Has Just ChangedADF Attorney Denise Burke on the Show TodayA decision recently from the U.S. Supreme Court allows states to redirect taxpayer dollars away from abortion facilities like Planned Parenthood. In Medina v. Planned Parenthood South Atlantic, Alliance Defending Freedom attorneys represented the director of the South Carolina Department of Health and Human Services. The high court's ruling means that the state can direct Medicaid funding—funds intended to help low-income individuals obtain necessary medical assistance—to comprehensive health care rather than entities that exist primarily to perform abortions.What that means in Alaska is complicated by the fact that the Supreme Court here, one of the most radical in the country, has consistently manufactured a "right to abortion" in our State Constitution. That being said, there is still a road map to protecting unborn and their mothers. The Medina case provides great leverage for employing strategies to redirect the State portion of Medicaid, which is a Federal/State collaborative program, toward real community health care centers that outnumber Planned Parenthood in Alaska 88 to 2. Don't believe the lies about less access to healthcare. What this really means is less access to abortion.On the Legislative front, the Big Beautiful Bill, that narrowly passed the U.S. Senate with a tie-breaking vote from Vice President J.D. Vance, has, for the first time in history, stripped Planned Parenthood of some $500 million. The BBB still has to go back to the U.S. House for a vote on the changes made by the Senate. The provision, originally proposed as a ten year measure to defund the abortion giant, was modified to just one year but it is a phenomenal first step in redistributing Federal funds to the more than 8,800 federally qualified community health care centers around the nation.Today, I have the pleasure of chatting with Denise Burke at Alliance Defending Freedom on these two critical measures that have changed the pro life landscape. As senior counsel Denise is a member of the Center for Public Policy at ADF. In this role, her efforts are directed toward protecting life from conception to natural death and defending the conscience rights of healthcare professionals.Prior to joining ADF, Burke served as vice president of legal affairs for Americans United for Life, where she routinely advised legislators, policy groups, and state attorneys general on life issues. I hope you can tune in.Support the show

On today's episode, we first discuss Katie Porter's latest campaign email, which contains a not-so-shocking revelation: Steve's lead in the polls. If this proves anything, it's that Californians are sick and tired of Democrat's one-party rule. Then, it seems Gavin Newsom wants to follow Gregg Abbott and redistrict California, even though our State Constitution doesn't allow it. Jen Horn joins the show to discuss Newsom's desire for political gain and how Democrat policies have forced the President of In N Out to flee California.

June 18, 2025 - The anti-discrimination language added to the state constitution is being tested in the courts, as judges challenge a forced retirement age in New York. We explore this constitutional amendment and its ramifications with attorney Evan Davis, who helped craft the protections.

The Hidden Lightness with Jimmy Hinton – Wisconsin voters make history by amending their Constitution to require photo ID at the polls. With overwhelming support, this marks a major step toward securing election integrity. As public trust in government erodes, voter ID stands as a common-sense safeguard. I break down why this victory matters and what it means for the future of our democracy.

After Dark with Hosts Rob & Andrew – Wisconsin voters approve a constitutional amendment to secure voter ID laws, reinforcing election integrity with strong public backing. This move blocks activist courts and future rollbacks while ensuring accessible, fraud-resistant voting. Backed by Republicans and celebrated by Trump, it marks a strategic victory that strengthens trust in elections and sets a powerful precedent for other states.

Host Paul Pacelli opened Tuesday's "Connecticut Today" highlighting a push at the State Capitol to give police officers more power to stop drivers suspected of using marijuana while behind the wheel (00:36). GOP State Sen. Paul Cicarella talked about Monday's public hearing regarding that proposal for extended police powers (15:36). Yankee Institute blogger Meghan Portfolio talked about the legal and monetary risks of attaching a so-called "Green Amendment" to the State Constitution (24:06) Image Credit: iStock / Getty Images Plus

A reading and commentary on Dr. Edwin Vieira's By Tyranny Out of Necessity: The Bastardy of Martial Law, Chapters 5 and 6. Everyday Samurai episode 67 explores the stark contrast between the idealized practice of martial arts and the brutal reality of war. The episode begins with a discussion of dojo traditions and their symbolic meaning of self-renewal and the acceptance of mortality, contrasting this with helmet cam footage of a deadly knife fight between Ukrainian and Russian soldiers. This footage underscores the unpredictable and brutal nature of combat, highlighting the disconnect between training and actual conflict. The discussion then pivots to a critical examination of the modern nation-state's use of war, arguing that it often serves nefarious purposes, benefiting a select few at the expense of the many. The speakers delve into the constitutional implications of war, emphasizing the importance of Congress's power to declare war and the dangers of the military-industrial complex. The latter half of the podcast focuses on Dr. Edwin Vieira's work, "By Tyranny out of Necessity, the Bastardy of Martial Law," examining the illegitimacy of martial law under the Declaration of Independence and the historical context of the American Revolution. Martial law is antithetical to a free society, violating fundamental principles of liberty and self-governance, and that the well-regulated militia, as envisioned by the Founding Fathers, is crucial for maintaining domestic order and preventing the tyranny of a standing army. The episode concludes with a call to action, urging listeners to stay informed, vigilant, and committed to the principles of liberty. Chapters: 00:00:00 - Dojo Philosophy & Combat 00:03:42 - War Footage & Humanity 07:04 - War, Liberty, & Martial Law 11:01:50 - Martial Law & Declaration 14:41 - Dangers of a Standing Army 17:49 - Martial Law: Contradiction 21:46 - Colonial Grievances & Oppression 28:43 - Martial Law: Unjust & Unconstitutional 40:05 - State Constitutions & Military 44:01 - Civil vs. Military Power Shop.EverydaySamurai.Life Links: Link.EverydaySamurai.Life

Washington Democrats want to add ‘gender affirming care’ and abortion rights to the state constitution. Donald Trump announced that “America is Back.” // LongForm: GUEST: Klickitat County Sheriff Bob Songer explains why he is going to ignore state law and assist ICE with enforcing federal immigration law. // Quick Hit: Washington D.C. is removing its ‘Black Lives Matter’ mural.

Ed is joined by Susan Sparks-Burns who is campaigning for better conditions inside the prisons in Georgia. Georgia has some of the most punitive prison conditions in the US resulting in a higher mortality and mental illness rate than almost anywhere else in the country.She talks about the They Have No Voice movement, which represents the families and prisoners campaigning for a humane and less brutal system. She details stories from inside the prisons which may alarm.They also focus on the sentencing and punishments dished out inside the prisons, which seem to be, at best, random.This is part one of a two part interview; From the Facebook GroupDue  to the escalating incidents of violence within every prison across the  state of Georgia, we pose this question; Who is held accountable as to  why?Welcome  to Inside Georgia Prisons commentary forum. Our intention is to  enlighten and inform you as to the unreliable and reckless policies of  the Georgia Department of Corrections.  Inside Georgia Prisons invites  your comments on, past experiences and involvement in some of these  volatile incidents of brutality and neglect where the well being of  prisoners and staff alike are at risk.Inside  Georgia Prisons is open to families whose son (or daughter) have  suffered inhumane treatment at the hands of another prisoner or  department of Corrections (DOC) staff.  We welcome comments from former  and current employees and former inmates who can substantiate claims of  unjust and aggressive treatment by the Georgia Department of Corrections  administration.Our  purpose is to address these subject matters that are imposing  additional hardship on every family affected by incarceration  within  the State of Georgia.  Prevalent and related news articles are posted  and awaiting your opinion (viewpoint). Though the DOC is a dominant  organization within the State, most of the information disseminated from  them is one-sided. Inside Georgia Prisons will identify this bias data  and provide an honest platform for counter arguments.We  understand that society has regarded prisoners as offensive, yet they  forever will remain human beings. During their incarceration many  prisoners are focused upon self improvement of their past behavioral  patterns. As prisoners, they still retain indisputable rights under the  U.S. and State Constitution.  As State taxpayers, one should ensure  policy makers address important issues such as prison violence, prison  overcrowding, and prison abuse.Inside Georgia Prisons was created by advocates of those who reside and work behind Georgia prison walls and their families.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-opperman-report--1198501/support.

Ed is joined by Susan Sparks-Burns who is campaigning for better conditions inside the prisons in Georgia. Georgia has some of the most punitive prison conditions in the US resulting in a higher mortality and mental illness rate than almost anywhere else in the country.She talks about the They Have No Voice movement, which represents the families and prisoners campaigning for a humane and less brutal system. She details stories from inside the prisons which may alarm.They also focus on the sentencing and punishments dished out inside the prisons, which seem to be, at best, random.This is part one of a two part interview; From the Facebook GroupDue  to the escalating incidents of violence within every prison across the  state of Georgia, we pose this question; Who is held accountable as to  why?Welcome  to Inside Georgia Prisons commentary forum. Our intention is to  enlighten and inform you as to the unreliable and reckless policies of  the Georgia Department of Corrections.  Inside Georgia Prisons invites  your comments on, past experiences and involvement in some of these  volatile incidents of brutality and neglect where the well being of  prisoners and staff alike are at risk.Inside  Georgia Prisons is open to families whose son (or daughter) have  suffered inhumane treatment at the hands of another prisoner or  department of Corrections (DOC) staff.  We welcome comments from former  and current employees and former inmates who can substantiate claims of  unjust and aggressive treatment by the Georgia Department of Corrections  administration.Our  purpose is to address these subject matters that are imposing  additional hardship on every family affected by incarceration  within  the State of Georgia.  Prevalent and related news articles are posted  and awaiting your opinion (viewpoint). Though the DOC is a dominant  organization within the State, most of the information disseminated from  them is one-sided. Inside Georgia Prisons will identify this bias data  and provide an honest platform for counter arguments.We  understand that society has regarded prisoners as offensive, yet they  forever will remain human beings. During their incarceration many  prisoners are focused upon self improvement of their past behavioral  patterns. As prisoners, they still retain indisputable rights under the  U.S. and State Constitution.  As State taxpayers, one should ensure  policy makers address important issues such as prison violence, prison  overcrowding, and prison abuse.Inside Georgia Prisons was created by advocates of those who reside and work behind Georgia prison walls and their families.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-opperman-report--1198501/support.

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Hosts: Taylor Morgan and Rusty Cannon  The Utah Constitution says that proposed amendments to the State Constitution must be published in "at least one newspaper in every county of the state ... for two months immediately preceding the next general election." You might remember, this played a role in the courts throwing out Amendments A and D during the November election. Inside Sources digs into a new bill that would eliminate this newspaper publishing requirement. 

Hosts: Taylor Morgan and Rusty Cannon  “War on waste” as DOGE subcommittee meets for the first time  It's a "war on waste” -- that's how Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene described the focus of the first ever DOGE subcommittee meeting this morning. It comes as Elon Musk defends the efforts and actions of DOGE and as Democrats call for Musk to testify under oath about the Department of Government Efficiency. Inside Sources begins with a discussion on the latest DOGE developments.    On the Hill 2025: Legislation on housing affordability  We’re coming up on the halfway point in the 2025 Legislative General Session, but there are still plenty of bills to discuss. State Representative Carol Spackman Moss is working on a bill address affordable housing – HB286: Olene Walker Housing Loan Fund Amendments. This bill would take some revenue from liquor sales and move it into this loan fund. Rep. Moss joins Inside Sources to explain more about what her bill would do.     On the Hill 2025: Reaffirming Utah’s sovereignty  One of the unique aspects of the United States is the prevalence and importance of federalism -- some powers belong to the Federal Government and some power belong to the States. Federalism has led to disagreements between the states and the federal government many times, including here in Utah. State Senator Wayne Harper will introduce a new Senate Joint Resolution that addresses the relationship and joins the show to share the motivation behind it.    On the Hill 2025: Removing newspaper publishing requirement from Utah Constitution  The Utah Constitution says that proposed amendments to the State Constitution must be published in "at least one newspaper in every county of the state ... for two months immediately preceding the next general election." You might remember, this played a role in the courts throwing out Amendments A and D during the November election. Inside Sources digs into a new bill that would eliminate this newspaper publishing requirement.    How is President Trump responding to rising inflation rates?  Inflation continued to rise in January. And even though President Trump was only in office for 11 days in January, many people are thrusting the blame on him. The President isn’t always able to control the price of things, but Trump did promise to bring prices down on Day 1 of his administration. And he hasn’t... So, what’s he doing in response to rising prices? Rusty and Taylor give their thoughts.    Polls on Pres. Trump’s performance give insights into how Americans feeling  How's the president doing in the polls after a few weeks in office? New polling gives us an indication on what voters are pleased with and what they're annoyed with in regards to President Trump's recent decisions. The Inside Sources discuss the latest poll results.    Trump administration working towards peace between Russia and Ukraine  President Trump says he and Russian President Vladimir Putin have agreed to work towards an end of the war between Ukraine and Russia. It comes as Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth says Ukraine should lower their expectations of getting land back. We hear a bit of what President Trump told reporters about the phone call.    AP reporters barred from Oval Office because of AP policy on ‘Gulf of America’  Reporters with the Associated Press have been barred from the Oval Office due to the AP’s style guide policy on how to refer to ‘Gulf of America’ -- say ‘Gulf of Mexico’ but reference President Trump’s decision to rename it. Inside Sources finishes the show with the hosts sharing thoughts on the President’s obsession with the new name.   

John Faso: NY State Court of Appeals to decide if 800K non citizens are allowed to vote in NYC which violates the state constitution Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this AJPH podcast episode, recorded live at the 2025 American Public Health Association Annual Meeting in Minneapolis, Vickie Mays and Alfredo Morabia speak with Adrienne R. Ghorashi and Ruqaiijah Yearby about their presentation, "Examining the Role of State Constitutions in Racism, Governance, and Health Equity." They highlight how state constitutions, rather than the federal constitution, play a crucial yet often overlooked role in shaping health inequities. The discussion explores how legal frameworks at the state level contribute to systemic disparities and how constitutional reforms could advance health equity.

In Ep. 354 Ken and Dave discuss charging Moore, the State of The State, the Speaker's priorities, Biden's goodbye, die DEI, the drunk SouthWest pilot, Florida gets a new senator, another Georgian headed to the SBA, and Trump's cabinet hearings.

Have you heard of the up coming vote on Amendment 2? (Preserve the Right to Fish & Hunt in Florida). Then if not this is your chance to make a difference! Amendment two "RIGHT TO FISH AND HUNT. — Proposing an amendment to the State Constitution to preserve forever fishing and hunting, including by the use of traditional methods, as a public right and preferred means of responsibly managing and controlling fish and wildlife. Specifies that the amendment does not limit the authority granted to the Fish and WildlifeConservation Commission under Section 9 of Article IV of the State Constitution." MORE INFORMATION VoteYesOn2 - https://voteyeson2florida.com/

OPINIONS, MORALITY, AND MEDICAL REALITY: WHY I'M A VOTING “YES” ON MISSOURI AMENDMENT 3Reader warning: This piece includes language regarding abortion, and sexual assault.As a man I am uniquely unqualified to talk about Women's reproductive health. Along with being a man, I am not a doctor and have very little formal education regarding human reproduction. In fact, in high school I was able to choose between biology and physical science (physics light) and I took physical science. Instead of human anatomy I took an astronomy class. You want to know about planetary movement via ellipse? I've got you covered. But when it comes to the science behind female reproductive matters, I am - to quote Missouri Congressman Jason Smith “not an expert” on the topic. Being not an expert on the topic, however, doesn't stop plenty of folks, men and women alike, from taking strong stances on the topic of abortion. In Missouri, where I live with my wife (who is not a medical professional either but is a mother of 3 and seems to know a bit more about her own health needs than I do) we have Amendment 3 on the November ballot. Amendment 3 (MO3) asks voters in Missouri whether or not we should amend our State Constitution to allow for reproductive care to be legal, with regulation, in the State. You can read the actual text on the Secretary of State's website. THE BASIC ARGUMENTS AGAINSTFolks arguing against MO3 have taken two main paths. First, the most common and predictable, is the purely moral argument. That abortion is wrong, period. This is typically through a religious stance. Second, is that the language of the proposed amendment allows for various other medical procedures including gender affirming care, and that somehow children will be given secret transition surgery without parental consent. Most far-fetched is that somehow these secret surgeries will be happening at school. The second argument, the one about the broad language and secret surgeries, is flat out ridiculous. It is, at best, ill-informed and at worst an intentionally misleading lie. It's so clearly incorrect that I have nothing more to say on it other than to say this: Anyone making that argument is verifiably and demonstrably wrong. The first, the moral argument, reveals an issue that is glossed over. It is not an actual argument about abortion, what it is, what it means, or when it occurs, but rather a desire to have state law mirror religious belief. The most obvious and simple retort here is that our system is intentionally designed to avoid just that. Passing laws to enact religious doctrine is inherently unconstitutional, and it has been. More importantly, the moral argument is often centered around the concept that “abortion” means killing - and ignores the reality of what “abortion” actually includes. PERSONAL EDUCATION POST DOBBS DECISION Prior to the Supreme Court's decision in the Dobb's case, overturning the Roe case and returning the question of abortion's legality to the States, I would have told you that while I supported a woman's right to choose, I thought all abortion was a tragedy. I was a fairly standard “pro-choice, but” kind of voter in that way, and it is a position that a lot of folks shared. After Dobbs, however, I learned. I educated myself on the medical procedures that fall into “abortion” and I listened to the folks who could best educate me on the topic. I listened to doctors. I listened to WOMEN. Before Dobbs I couldn't have told what a “D&C” or “D&E” procedure was, or why they were used, or when they were needed. Now, I know. You can read the actual stats on abortion in the United States including the data from the CDC which shows when in the gestational stage most abortive procedures take place.  What I learned left me with two conclusions: I knew even less than I thought about abortion. I shouldn't be making the decision about these medical issues.I mentioned above I'm a father to three, yet even after experiencing the births of my own children I was still woefully out of touch with reality. CHOICE ALLOWS HEALTH CAREWhat I know, now, is that “abortion” is a single word with a broad medical meaning. What I know  now, is that “abortion” is not what I was led to believe through my church or moral instruction on the topic. Pew Research provides the following information: “The CDC broadly divides abortions into two categories: surgical abortions and medication abortions, which involve pills. Since the Food and Drug Administration first approved abortion pills in 2000, their use has increased over time as a share of abortions nationally, according to both the CDC and Guttmacher.The majority of abortions in the U.S. now involve pills, according to both the CDC and Guttmacher. The CDC says 56% of U.S. abortions in 2021 involved pills, up from 53% in 2020 and 44% in 2019. Its figures for 2021 include the District of Columbia and 44 states that provided this data; its figures for 2020 include D.C. and 44 states (though not all of the same states as in 2021), and its figures for 2019 include D.C. and 45 states.”That same research reveals that roughly 99% of all abortion procedures, of any kind, occur prior to the third trimester. In fact, there are only a handful of states where such a procedure could even be obtained and most places where abortion is legal (which for now does NOT include MIssouri) have specific viability language. In addition, the allegations of “post birth” abortion is, to put it politely, utter nonsense.It is a fiction that is sensationalized and sold because there is simply no one in favor of murdering an infant. It's an abhorrent lie meant to inflame the passions of the person hearing it and as a result the word “abortion” is used to mean something that it simply isn't. It's a rhetorical trick, an illusion, designed to mislead you.MISSOURI'S LANGUAGEThe actual language proposed in Missouri specifically allows for regulation after “Fetal Viability” as well, so claims that MO3 will create some wild scenario where women who are 9 months pregnant are going to suddenly be lining up to have “late term” abortions is not only ridiculous and statistically false, it's a flat out lie based on the actual language, seen here directly from the ballot language itself: WORST CASES ARE HARD TO DISCUSSI will close with this unfortunate reality. There are women, girls, mothers and sisters and daughters, who are or will be in residential care. There are real stories of rape of women in care facilities. I am the father of a daughter who cannot speak without assistance, who cannot fight off a would-be attacker, but who could be a victim of just such an attack. Is it likely? No, it isn't. But it is far more real in terms of risk than the dark fantasy of infanticide peddled by anti- abortion groups. I'm voting YES on MO3 for basic freedom, for the protection of my own daughters, for my wife's access to her healthcare, and for every other person in MIssouri who might need a medical procedure that I'm not qualified to fully understand. I'm voting YES on MO3 because when it comes to medical decisions and reproductive care the only people with input should be those in the exam room. I'm voting YES on MO3 because legality and morality are not the same things and because it's not my place to decide what is right or wrong for another person's life. I'm voting YES on MO3 because I trust women to make their own decisions. I'm voting YES on MO3 because the arguments being made are false. Finally, I'm voting YES on MO3 because I'm choosing to mind my own damn business. You can too, and it's so easy to do. All you do is use the marker to fill in the bubble next to “Yes” on the ballot.”  @TheHeartlandPOD on Twitter and ThreadsCo-HostsAdam Sommer @Adam_Sommer85 (Twitter) @adam_sommer85 (Threads)Rachel Parker @msraitchetp (Threads) Sean Diller (no social)The Heartland Collective - Sign Up Today!JOIN PATREON FOR MORE - AND JOIN OUR SOCIAL NETWORK!“Change The Conversation”Outro Song: “The World Is On Fire” by American Aquarium http://www.americanaquarium.com/

OPINIONS, MORALITY, AND MEDICAL REALITY: WHY I'M A VOTING “YES” ON MISSOURI AMENDMENT 3Reader warning: This piece includes language regarding abortion, and sexual assault.As a man I am uniquely unqualified to talk about Women's reproductive health. Along with being a man, I am not a doctor and have very little formal education regarding human reproduction. In fact, in high school I was able to choose between biology and physical science (physics light) and I took physical science. Instead of human anatomy I took an astronomy class. You want to know about planetary movement via ellipse? I've got you covered. But when it comes to the science behind female reproductive matters, I am - to quote Missouri Congressman Jason Smith “not an expert” on the topic. Being not an expert on the topic, however, doesn't stop plenty of folks, men and women alike, from taking strong stances on the topic of abortion. In Missouri, where I live with my wife (who is not a medical professional either but is a mother of 3 and seems to know a bit more about her own health needs than I do) we have Amendment 3 on the November ballot. Amendment 3 (MO3) asks voters in Missouri whether or not we should amend our State Constitution to allow for reproductive care to be legal, with regulation, in the State. You can read the actual text on the Secretary of State's website. THE BASIC ARGUMENTS AGAINSTFolks arguing against MO3 have taken two main paths. First, the most common and predictable, is the purely moral argument. That abortion is wrong, period. This is typically through a religious stance. Second, is that the language of the proposed amendment allows for various other medical procedures including gender affirming care, and that somehow children will be given secret transition surgery without parental consent. Most far-fetched is that somehow these secret surgeries will be happening at school. The second argument, the one about the broad language and secret surgeries, is flat out ridiculous. It is, at best, ill-informed and at worst an intentionally misleading lie. It's so clearly incorrect that I have nothing more to say on it other than to say this: Anyone making that argument is verifiably and demonstrably wrong. The first, the moral argument, reveals an issue that is glossed over. It is not an actual argument about abortion, what it is, what it means, or when it occurs, but rather a desire to have state law mirror religious belief. The most obvious and simple retort here is that our system is intentionally designed to avoid just that. Passing laws to enact religious doctrine is inherently unconstitutional, and it has been. More importantly, the moral argument is often centered around the concept that “abortion” means killing - and ignores the reality of what “abortion” actually includes. PERSONAL EDUCATION POST DOBBS DECISION Prior to the Supreme Court's decision in the Dobb's case, overturning the Roe case and returning the question of abortion's legality to the States, I would have told you that while I supported a woman's right to choose, I thought all abortion was a tragedy. I was a fairly standard “pro-choice, but” kind of voter in that way, and it is a position that a lot of folks shared. After Dobbs, however, I learned. I educated myself on the medical procedures that fall into “abortion” and I listened to the folks who could best educate me on the topic. I listened to doctors. I listened to WOMEN. Before Dobbs I couldn't have told what a “D&C” or “D&E” procedure was, or why they were used, or when they were needed. Now, I know. You can read the actual stats on abortion in the United States including the data from the CDC which shows when in the gestational stage most abortive procedures take place.  What I learned left me with two conclusions: I knew even less than I thought about abortion. I shouldn't be making the decision about these medical issues.I mentioned above I'm a father to three, yet even after experiencing the births of my own children I was still woefully out of touch with reality. CHOICE ALLOWS HEALTH CAREWhat I know, now, is that “abortion” is a single word with a broad medical meaning. What I know  now, is that “abortion” is not what I was led to believe through my church or moral instruction on the topic. Pew Research provides the following information: “The CDC broadly divides abortions into two categories: surgical abortions and medication abortions, which involve pills. Since the Food and Drug Administration first approved abortion pills in 2000, their use has increased over time as a share of abortions nationally, according to both the CDC and Guttmacher.The majority of abortions in the U.S. now involve pills, according to both the CDC and Guttmacher. The CDC says 56% of U.S. abortions in 2021 involved pills, up from 53% in 2020 and 44% in 2019. Its figures for 2021 include the District of Columbia and 44 states that provided this data; its figures for 2020 include D.C. and 44 states (though not all of the same states as in 2021), and its figures for 2019 include D.C. and 45 states.”That same research reveals that roughly 99% of all abortion procedures, of any kind, occur prior to the third trimester. In fact, there are only a handful of states where such a procedure could even be obtained and most places where abortion is legal (which for now does NOT include MIssouri) have specific viability language. In addition, the allegations of “post birth” abortion is, to put it politely, utter nonsense.It is a fiction that is sensationalized and sold because there is simply no one in favor of murdering an infant. It's an abhorrent lie meant to inflame the passions of the person hearing it and as a result the word “abortion” is used to mean something that it simply isn't. It's a rhetorical trick, an illusion, designed to mislead you.MISSOURI'S LANGUAGEThe actual language proposed in Missouri specifically allows for regulation after “Fetal Viability” as well, so claims that MO3 will create some wild scenario where women who are 9 months pregnant are going to suddenly be lining up to have “late term” abortions is not only ridiculous and statistically false, it's a flat out lie based on the actual language, seen here directly from the ballot language itself: WORST CASES ARE HARD TO DISCUSSI will close with this unfortunate reality. There are women, girls, mothers and sisters and daughters, who are or will be in residential care. There are real stories of rape of women in care facilities. I am the father of a daughter who cannot speak without assistance, who cannot fight off a would-be attacker, but who could be a victim of just such an attack. Is it likely? No, it isn't. But it is far more real in terms of risk than the dark fantasy of infanticide peddled by anti- abortion groups. I'm voting YES on MO3 for basic freedom, for the protection of my own daughters, for my wife's access to her healthcare, and for every other person in MIssouri who might need a medical procedure that I'm not qualified to fully understand. I'm voting YES on MO3 because when it comes to medical decisions and reproductive care the only people with input should be those in the exam room. I'm voting YES on MO3 because legality and morality are not the same things and because it's not my place to decide what is right or wrong for another person's life. I'm voting YES on MO3 because I trust women to make their own decisions. I'm voting YES on MO3 because the arguments being made are false. Finally, I'm voting YES on MO3 because I'm choosing to mind my own damn business. You can too, and it's so easy to do. All you do is use the marker to fill in the bubble next to “Yes” on the ballot.”  @TheHeartlandPOD on Twitter and ThreadsCo-HostsAdam Sommer @Adam_Sommer85 (Twitter) @adam_sommer85 (Threads)Rachel Parker @msraitchetp (Threads) Sean Diller (no social)The Heartland Collective - Sign Up Today!JOIN PATREON FOR MORE - AND JOIN OUR SOCIAL NETWORK!“Change The Conversation”Outro Song: “The World Is On Fire” by American Aquarium http://www.americanaquarium.com/

Is the president above the law? Is the Electoral College democratic? In this episode, historian Jonathan Gienapp critiques the mainstream use of originalism, arguing that it often neglects crucial historical context, overlooking the complexities of original public understanding. The conversation dives into recent court cases, highlighting tensions between historical interpretation and contemporary judicial practices. This is clearly illustrated in Gienapp's discussion of the Electoral College—a uniquely American invention. He explains the historical roots of the Electoral College, the Framers' intentions, and the criticisms it faces today. He also sheds light on how the Electoral College emerged as a compromise among less desirable options and the historical context surrounding its establishment, including issues of accountability and regional interests. The conversation also touches on ongoing debates about potential reforms, public sentiment toward a national popular vote, and the challenges of amending the Constitution in today's contentious political landscape. Join us for an enlightening discussion that bridges history with contemporary constitutional debates.Connect:Episode Transcripts >>> Stanford Legal Podcast WebsiteStanford Legal Podcast >>> LinkedIn PageRich Ford >>>  Twitter/XPam Karlan >>> Stanford Law School PageStanford Law School >>> Twitter/XStanford  Law Magazine >>> Twitter/XLinks:Jonathan Gienapp >>> Stanford Law School Page(00:00:00) Chapter 1: Introduction and the Flaws of OriginalismHosts Pam Karlan and Rich Ford discuss the key issues with modern originalism, focusing on how originalists often overlook the historical context necessary to truly capture the Constitution's original meaning with historian Jonathan Gienapp. Gienapp critiques the flexibility of originalist interpretations, especially when applied to complex constitutional concepts like freedom of speech and executive power.(00:04:33) Chapter 2: Public Meaning vs. Original IntentRich Ford explores the tension between public meaning and original intent in originalist theory. Gienapp explains how, despite attempts to distinguish them, the two often overlap in practice. The discussion highlights the inconsistency in how originalists pick and choose historical evidence to support their interpretations.(00:07:47) Chapter 3: Judicial Interpretation in Practice: Rahimi and Trump CasesPam Karlan brings up recent court cases, including United States v. Rahimi and Trump v. United States, where originalist judges either struggled with historical evidence or avoided it altogether. Gienapp notes the irony of originalists relying on minimal historical analysis when it contradicts their desired outcomes.(00:12:04) Chapter 4: The Framers' Vision of the PresidencyJonathan Gienapp discusses the historical foundations of the American presidency, emphasizing the founding generation's rejection of monarchy and the importance of presidential accountability. He highlights the debate at the Constitutional Convention regarding the balance between a strong executive and ensuring that executive power remains accountable to the people.(00:17:06) Chapter 5: Originalism and Constitutional InterpretationJonathan Gienapp delves into the complexities of originalism as a judicial philosophy. He explains the tension between the rhetoric of originalism and its inconsistent application in Supreme Court decisions. He argues for either a more serious commitment to originalism or a recognition of constitutional pluralism, where history is used alongside other interpretative methods.(00:21:39) Chapter 6: The Origins and Challenges of the Electoral CollegeExploration of the creation of the Electoral College, discussing how it emerged not as a perfect solution but as a compromise to address competing concerns about legislative selection, popular votes, and regional interests. Gienapp examines past and present efforts to reform the Electoral College and explains why it persists despite criticism.

High school French teacher Peter Vlaming was fired from his job in West Point, Virginia, for declining to refer to a female student using male pronouns. Vlaming filed suit in state court, alleging that the school board had violated his rights to the free exercise of religion and free speech under the Virginia Constitution. Late last year, the Virginia Supreme Court held that the Virginia Constitution provides more robust protections for religious freedom than the federal Free Exercise Clause as interpreted in Employment Division v. Smith. As the Court wrote, “the federal Smith doctrine is not and never has been the law in Virginia, and its shelf life in the federal courts remains uncertain.” In its place, the Virginia Supreme Court adopted a history-and-tradition approach that asks whether the religious claimant has committed or is seeking to commit “overt acts against peace and good order,” and whether the government’s interest in negating that threat could be satisfied by “less restrictive means” than denying a religious exemption. This opinion raises a host of interesting questions: Will the U.S. Supreme Court’s history-and-tradition test for Second Amendment challenges be expanded to apply to other constitutional rights? Will other state courts follow the Virginia Supreme Court’s lead in applying it to their own state constitutions? Did the Virginia Supreme Court get its history right? Could its historical analysis serve as the basis for the U.S. Supreme Court to revisit Smith? What rights should public schoolteachers have in the classroom? Should courts resolve conflicts between the alleged free-exercise and free-speech rights of teachers and the alleged rights of students to engage in their own forms of self-expression? Finally, what role, if any, does Title IX play in the analysis? This panel will address these and other questions raised by this important decision.Featuring:Prof. Stephanie Barclay, Professor of Law, University of Notre Dame Law SchoolProf. Kate Carté, Professor of History, Southern Methodist UniversityChris Schandevel, Senior Counsel, Alliance Defending Freedom's Appellate Advocacy TeamAdam Unikowsky, Partner, Jenner & Block LLC(Moderator) Eric Treene, Senior Counsel, Storzer and Associates; Adjunct Professor at the Catholic University of America Law School

In Lindenberg v. Jackson National Life Ins. Co., 912 F.3d 348 (2018), the Sixth Circuit declared unconstitutional Tennessee’s law capping punitive damages based on the Tennessee constitution. But in the wake of Lindenberg, Tennessee state courts continue to reduce punitive damage awards in reliance on the statutory cap because the Tennessee Supreme Court has not directly addressed the law’s constitutionality. And in a case on a different statutory damages cap, the Tennessee Supreme Court indicated it likely would have disagreed with the Sixth Circuit. McClay v. Airport Mgmt Svcs, 596 S.W.3d 686, 693 n.6 (Tenn. 2020)Federal court certification of state law questions to state high courts is a thorny issue with competing concerns. All states but North Carolina permit certification, but the federal courts control which questions presented in the case it certifies for resolution. State courts are free to decline to answer the questions certified and to do so after a period of months, as happened in Lindenberg. Some experts point out that even when the state court chooses to answer the questions certified, the process can be time consuming and inefficient.Our panel will explore the issues of federalism, efficiency, and prudence presented when considering the question certification process between federal and state courts.Featuring:Hon. Rachel Wainer Apter, Associate Justice, Supreme Court of New JerseyHon. Benjamin Beaton, United States District Court for the Western District of KentuckyHon. Sarah Keeton Campbell, Justice, Supreme Court of TennesseeModerator: Hon. Jennifer Perkins, Arizona Court of Appeals, Division One---To register, click the link above.

Thursday, July 4th, 2024Today, Arizona Dems turn in a record number of signatures to put abortion access on the ballot in November; the leader of the RNC platform committee entertained the idea of prosecuting women who seek abortion care; the man behind project 2025 calls for blood unless we let them take over, and President Biden says he's staying in the race; plus AG and Dana deliver your good news.Promo Codes:For up to 30% off all mattress orders AND two free pillows for our listeners! Go to https://www.helixsleep.com/dailybeans.Netroots Nation is in Baltimore, July 11-13. Go to netrootsnation.org and type NN24Partner in the promo box for 10% off your ticket.Our Guest: Hudson Munozhttps://www.gunsdownamerica.org/guns-down-america-appoints-new-executive-directorGuns Down Americahttps://www.gunsdownamerica.orgTickets and LIVE show dates https://allisongill.comSubscribe for free to MuellerSheWrote on Substackhttps://muellershewrote.substack.com AFL-CIO Stands in Strong Solidarity With Biden-Harris Ticket (aficionado.org)Abortion measures could be on Arizona and Nebraska ballots after organizers submit signatures (AP News)Top leader of RNC Platform Committee entertained idea of imprisoning women who get abortions, opposes exceptions (CNN)Biden vows to keep running as signs point to rapidly eroding support for him on Capitol Hill (AP News)Man Behind Project 2025 Just Said the Quiet Part Out Loud (The Daily Beast) Subscribe to Lawyers, Guns, And MoneyAd-free premium feed: https://lawyersgunsandmoney.supercast.comSubscribe for free everywhere else:https://lawyersgunsandmoney.simplecast.com/episodes/1-miami-1985Check out other MSW Media podcastshttps://mswmedia.com/shows/Follow AG and Dana on Social MediaDr. Allison Gill Follow Mueller, She Wrote on Posthttps://post.news/@/MuellerSheWrote?utm_source=TwitterAG&utm_medium=creator_organic&utm_campaign=muellershewrote&utm_content=FollowMehttps://muellershewrote.substack.comhttps://twitter.com/MuellerSheWrotehttps://www.threads.net/@muellershewrotehttps://www.tiktok.com/@muellershewrotehttps://instagram.com/muellershewroteDana Goldberghttps://twitter.com/DGComedyhttps://www.instagram.com/dgcomedyhttps://www.facebook.com/dgcomedyhttps://danagoldberg.comHave some good news; a confession; or a correction to share?Good News & Confessions - The Daily Beanshttps://www.dailybeanspod.com/confessional/From The Good NewsHeads up – The Seattle show is sold out. If you are in a position of having tickets to empty seats please send us a message at hello@muellershewrote.com – put “Seattle Tickets” in the subject line – and we'll see if we can connect you with people who would like to go, but were unable to get tickets.The Biden-Harris Administration's Student Debt Relief Plan Explained (studentaid.gov)Houston students to brave dark, cold, and unpredictable waters while swimming the Catalina Channel (click2houston.com)Indivisible Bucks County (Twitter) Live Show Ticket Links:https://allisongill.com (for all tickets and show dates)Wednesday July 10th – Portland OR – Polaris Hall(with Dana!) - SOLD OUTThursday July 11th – Seattle WA – The Triple Door(with Dana!) - SOLD OUTThursday July 25th Milwaukee, WI https://tinyurl.com/Beans-MKESunday July 28th Nashville, TN - with Phil Williams https://tinyurl.com/Beans-TennWednesday July 31st St. Louis, MO https://tinyurl.com/Beans-STLFriday August 16th Washington, DC - with Andy McCabe, Pete Strzok, Glenn Kirschner https://tinyurl.com/Beans-in-DCSaturday August 24 San Francisco, CA https://tinyurl.com/Beans-SF Listener Survey:http://survey.podtrac.com/start-survey.aspx?pubid=BffJOlI7qQcF&ver=shortFollow the Podcast on Apple:The Daily Beans on Apple PodcastsWant to support the show and get it ad-free and early?Supercasthttps://dailybeans.supercast.com/OrPatreon https://patreon.com/thedailybeansOr subscribe on Apple Podcasts with our affiliate linkThe Daily Beans on Apple Podcasts

Dr. Michael New of the Charlotte Lozier Institute Michael New's Articles at National Review The Charlotte Lozier Institute The post 1652. Recent Surveys on Abortion Amendments to State Constitutions – Dr. Michael New, 6/13/24 first appeared on Issues, Etc..

The Israel lobby AIPAC is spending millions to defeat Representative Jamaal Bowman in the New York state Democratic primary. That's because he called for a permanent ceasefire back in October, and describes what's happening in Gaza now as “an ongoing genocide.” Alan Minsky has our analysis fo the campaign--he's Executive Director of Progressive Democrats of America.Also: at a time when Republicans have a lock on the Supreme Court, state constitutions can provide a basis not only for protecting abortion rights, but for criminal justice reform,voting rights protection, the right to public education and even, in some states, the right to breathe clean air. Eyal Press reports.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In the early republic, debates over constitutional rights were centered on state bills of rights. But, over time the state charters were gradually co-opted by federal judges and courts.Original Article: Federal Judges Co-Opted America's State Constitutions

Georgia State Secretary Brad Raffensperger breaks down new efforts in Georgia to codify in the State Constitution to only allow U.S. citizens to vote in state elections after 1600 non-citizens were found to have voted in the last election. Raffensperger calls for a constitutional amendment to the U.S. Constitution to guarantee voting rights to only U.S. citizens after recent push by Democrats. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It's Hump Day! Sam speaks with attorney Matthew Butterick about a lawsuit he's involved with representing artists against OpenAI, the company behind ChatGPT. Then, he's joined by political reporter Cameron Joseph to discuss the upcoming referendum in Ohio, entitled Issue 1, regarding ballot measures in the state. First, Sam runs through updates on Donald Trump's various legal woes, WGA-Studio talks, Flint's new natal care plan, the Fed's continuing war on labor, SCOTUS record low public approval, and Russian bombing of Ukrainian grain stores, before parsing through the recent, massive indictment of Donald Trump of multiple charges of conspiracy and obstruction. Matthew Butterick then joins, diving right into his work with various acclaimed authors taking on the unauthorized use of their work across various AI engines, which, in fact, entirely rely on pre-existing and often-copyrighted works for their primary inputs, not to mention producing infringing derivative works with its outputs. After diving a little deeper into how this case centers on copyright infringement, and how it applies to other forms of AI (e.g. art and music), they wrap up by tackling the shape of the case as a class-action suit, and what the next steps are in this battle. Cameron Joseph then walks Sam through Ohio's various upcoming referendums, first looking to the referendum to enshrine abortion rights in the State Constitutions that is scheduled for November, and tackling the long organizing process that took it to get there, before touching on the legislature-expedited response by Gov DeWine's Secretary of State to launch an earlier referendum (scheduled for August) that makes it vastly more difficult to pass a constitutional referendum. After tackling the state of Ohio politics that led to these respective referenda, and why, the anti-referendum referendum seems poised to fail, they wrap up by looking to the ongoing political debacles in Wisconsin as liberals begin to take power and abuse the tools set up by the previous conservatives in their place. And in the Fun Half: Sam is joined by Sean Fitzgerald AKA Actual Justice Warrior as they debate all things crime, walking through the impact of the George Floyd protests and the COVID-19 Pandemic on retirement rates, police funding, and overall crime rates. Plus, your calls and IMs! Check out more details on the OpenAI lawsuit here: https://www.theverge.com/2023/7/9/23788741/sarah-silverman-openai-meta-chatgpt-llama-copyright-infringement-chatbots-artificial-intelligence-ai Check out Cameron's reporting on Issue 1 here: https://boltsmag.org/ohio-gop-sets-up-vote-to-weaken-direct-democracy/ Become a member at JoinTheMajorityReport.com: https://fans.fm/majority/join Subscribe to the ESVN YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/esvnshow Subscribe to the AMQuickie newsletter here: https://am-quickie.ghost.io/ Join the Majority Report Discord! http://majoritydiscord.com/ Get all your MR merch at our store: https://shop.majorityreportradio.com/ Get the free Majority Report App!: http://majority.fm/app Check out today's sponsors: HoldOn Bags: To shop plant based bags and replace single use plastics all over your home, visit https://holdonbags.com/MAJORITY or enter MAJORITY at checkout to save 20% off your order. Follow the Majority Report crew on Twitter: @SamSeder @EmmaVigeland @MattBinder @MattLech @BF1nn @BradKAlsop Check out Matt's show, Left Reckoning, on Youtube, and subscribe on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/leftreckoning Subscribe to Brandon's show The Discourse on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/ExpandTheDiscourse Subscribe to Discourse Blog, a newsletter and website for progressive essays and related fun partly run by AM Quickie writer Jack Crosbie. https://discourseblog.com/ Check out Matt Binder's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/mattbinder Check out Ava Raiza's music here! https://avaraiza.bandcamp.com/ The Majority Report with Sam Seder - https://majorityreportradio.com/