Tag: federalism
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When the Court Steps Aside: California’s Mid-Decade Redistricting and Its National Implications
The U.S. Supreme Court allowed California’s revised congressional map to take effect for the 2026 elections, highlighting ongoing issues in redistricting. While it declined to rule on mid-cycle redistricting’s constitutionality, the decision may encourage other states to explore similar changes. Future challenges will likely focus on concrete violations rather than partisan motives.
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Virginia’s HB 965 and the National Popular Vote Compact: How It Works—and What Changes If It Passes
Virginia lawmakers are considering HB 965, which would allow the state to join the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact. This agreement aims to elect presidents based on the national popular vote instead of the Electoral College system. Critics voice concerns about voter consent and the shift in electoral authority from states to a national standard.
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Judge Blocks New Citizenship Requirements in Latest Setback to Trump Election Executive Order
A federal judge has blocked provisions from former President Trump’s executive order that aimed to impose federal oversight on voter eligibility and citizenship verification. The ruling emphasizes that such changes require congressional approval, reinforcing the constitutional balance of power between state and federal election administration. Future attempts to alter election rules will face scrutiny.
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How Governors Influence Election Administration
In the U.S., election administration is mainly handled by states, with governors playing significant roles through appointment powers, executive oversight, legal leadership, and coordination with local officials. Their influence varies across states, impacting election policies and procedures despite different constitutional frameworks and statutory arrangements governing elections.
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What the Presidency Can — and Cannot — Change After an Election
The content examines the realistic limitations of presidential power in the U.S., emphasizing that while presidents can set agendas, enact executive orders, and influence foreign policy, they cannot unilaterally change laws, rewrite the Constitution, or control independent institutions. Voter expectations often exceed these boundaries, leading to disappointment and distrust in democracy.
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Congressional Power Under the U.S. Constitution: What It Can and Cannot Do on Election Rules
The U.S. Constitution’s Elections Clause grants Congress the power to regulate federal elections, allowing it to override state laws. However, this authority is balanced by constitutional limits and historical practices, with states primarily managing election administration. Proposed reforms face judicial scrutiny and must align with constitutional provisions, emphasizing a dual authority structure.
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25 Years After Bush v. Gore, Election Law Is Still Living in Its Shadow
Twenty-five years after Bush v. Gore, the Supreme Court’s decision still shapes how elections are run, challenged, and decided. From routine post-election lawsuits to expanded judicial intervention, the 2000 ruling continues to influence election law—and public confidence in democratic outcomes.
Election Desk 