After the Civil War Congress passed a number of constitutional amendments to try and manage and limit the restrictions states used to limit who could vote in elections.
Civil Rights
A Win for Democracy: Two Georgia Judges Rule Election Board Must Certify Election Results
On October 14, 2024, Judge Robert McBurney of the Superior Court of Fulton County, Atlanta Judicial Circuit issued a final order in the civil action Adams v. Fulton County.
The Unfinished Story of Our Right to Vote Part One
This is the first in a series examining the Right To Vote in the United States. The first part of this series will examine the Right To Vote as derived from the United States Constitution.
The Challenges of Appealing The Trump Classified Documents Case
Brief #229 – Civil Rights Policy Brief
by: Rod Maggay
The Trump classified documents case presents a pivotal moment in legal history, as the dismissal by Judge Aileen Cannon and subsequent appeal by Special Counsel Jack Smith challenge established legal precedents. As the case navigates through the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals, its outcome could have far-reaching implications for the 2024 presidential election and the rule of law.
Judge Aileen Cannon’s Dismissal of Trump’s Case Ignores Legal Precedent and History
Brief #228 – Civil Rights Policy Brief
by: Rod A. Maggay
Judge Aileen Cannon’s recent dismissal of Trump’s case defies established legal precedents, raising significant concerns about judicial impartiality. By relying solely on a contentious interpretation of the Appointments Clause, Cannon’s decision could set a troubling precedent for the future of special prosecutors.
Takeaways From the Presidential Immunity Decision
Brief #227 – Civil Rights Policy Brief
by: Rodney A. Maggay
The presidential immunity case was expected to be a blockbuster case and when it finally was handed down it did not disappoint. The case was always going to be controversial. While there are notable points to highlight, a closer examination of the decision reveals…
The Supreme Court Bump Stock Ruling Explained
Brief #226 – Civil Rights Policy Brief
by: Arvind Salem
In a landmark decision, the Supreme Court struck down the ATF’s bump stock ban, ruling it an unconstitutional overreach of executive authority. This verdict not only impacts the regulation of gun accessories but also sets a precedent that could undermine future gun control efforts.
Louisiana Requiring Display of Ten Commandments In All Public Schools Is Unconstitutional
Brief #225 – Civil Rights Policy Brief
by: Rod Maggay
Louisiana’s House Bill No. 71, which mandates the display of the Ten Commandments in all public school classrooms, is a brazen assault on the separation of church and state. This divisive legislation not only tramples on constitutional rights but also risks alienating non-Christian students in a state-funded endorsement of one religion.
History of the Upside Down Flag and the Justice Alito Controversy
Brief #224 – Civil Rights Policy Brief
by: Rod Maggay
The controversy surrounding Justice Samuel Alito stems from reports of an upside-down American flag and a Pine Tree Flag flown at his properties, symbols recently adopted by far-right groups protesting the 2020 election results. This incident raises significant concerns about his impartiality and adherence to the Supreme Court’s Code of Conduct, prompting calls for his recusal from related cases and potential congressional censure.
An Unconstitutional and Dangerous State Trend: Chaplains as School Counselors
Brief #223 – Civil Rights Policy Brief
by: Rodney A. Maggay
As state legislatures across the nation flirt with the dangerous notion of substituting unqualified chaplains for trained school counselors, the fundamental principle of separation between church and state is under dire threat. By permitting unlicensed individuals to wield influence over vulnerable students’ mental health and social well-being, these policies jeopardize not only constitutional freedoms but also the safety and welfare of countless students.
Is Judge Cannon Tilting The Classified Documents Case In Trump’s Favor?
Brief #222 – Civil Rights Policy Brief
by Rodney A. Maggay
In a controversial turn of events, Judge Aileen Cannon’s handling of cases involving former President Trump is under scrutiny, with accusations of favoritism towards Trump. Allegations point to questionable orders and scheduling delays, raising concerns that Judge Cannon may be intentionally tilting the trial in Trump’s favor, prompting widespread debate on the integrity of the judicial process.
Should Trump Be Given Classified Foreign Intelligence Briefings As A Candidate?
Brief #221 – Civil Rights Policy Brief
by Rodney A. Maggay
Amidst former President Trump’s legal battles over mishandling classified documents, questions arise over his eligibility to receive classified foreign intelligence briefings as a 2024 election candidate. With bipartisan concerns and differing expert opinions, debates ensue regarding the potential national security implications of such briefings.