The Runup to the Declaration of Independence
In the years before 1763, the British Empire—although in theory a unified entity—was really a federation. The central government in London controlled foreign affairs and the imperial post office. It also regulated trade with foreign countries and among units of the...
How the Founders Explained Limits on the Federal Government
“The powers delegated by the proposed Constitution to the federal government are few and defined. Those which are to remain in the State governments are numerous and indefinite.” – James Madison, Federalist No. 45 Current controversy over the power of President...
The Constitution and the Trump Tariffs
Are tariffs always taxes? When does a statute granting powers to the president go too far? These are some of the questions the Supreme Court will address in two consolidated tariffs cases: Learning Resources, Inc v. Trump and Trump v. V.O.S. Selections. This...