Tariffs, Taxes, and the Tug-of-War: Why Congress Should Hold the Purse Strings
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Tariffs, Taxes, and the Tug-of-War: Why Congress Should Hold the Purse Strings

Did you know tariffs are just another word for taxes—and that the Constitution says only Congress should impose them? Discover how decades of congressional power handoffs have let presidents call the shots on tariffs, why that’s a problem for democracy, and what two major lawsuits are doing to challenge it. Click to learn why checks and balances matter every time you shop!

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Defending the Balance: How Courts Check Executive Power—From Madison to Trump
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Defending the Balance: How Courts Check Executive Power—From Madison to Trump

The League of Women Voters of Bloomington explores the historic balance between the president and the courts—and how a recent Supreme Court decision has upended the principle that no one is above the law. Learn why defending checks and balances is more urgent than ever, and what’s at stake for American democracy. Click to read more.

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Defending Democracy: Why Due Process Isn’t Partisan
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Defending Democracy: Why Due Process Isn’t Partisan

In today’s polarized climate, the League of Women Voters of Bloomington stands firm: protecting due process and the rule of law is not political—it’s patriotic. Learn why speaking out against lawless government actions is essential to our democracy, and what’s at stake when constitutional principles are ignored. Click to read more.

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Assembling America: The Right That Built Movements Left and Right
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Assembling America: The Right That Built Movements Left and Right

From Tea Party rallies to climate marches, the First Amendment’s right to assemble protects all voices—left, right, and center. Discover how protests shaped America, why permits can’t silence controversial messages, and how courts balance order with dissent. Whether you’re holding a sign or a rally permit, this is your constitutional power to unite. Click to learn more

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Republican, Democratic, Liberal: The Words That Divide Us (And Shouldn't)
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Republican, Democratic, Liberal: The Words That Divide Us (And Shouldn't)

Ever wonder why political debates feel like everyone's speaking different languages? Dive into the surprising origins of "republican," "democratic," and "liberal." Discover how these words shape (and sometimes distort) our understanding of politics. Arm yourself with knowledge to cut through the noise and engage in smarter political conversations.

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What It Means to Be an American: Citizenship as a Call to Action
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What It Means to Be an American: Citizenship as a Call to Action

What does it mean to be an American today? This post explores the balance between rights and responsibilities, the freedoms we cherish, and the duties we owe to our communities. Discover how embracing empathy, solidarity, and fairness can help us build a stronger, more just nation.

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Separation Anxiety: Church, State, and the American Way
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Separation Anxiety: Church, State, and the American Way

From school prayers to wedding cakes, America's religious freedom debate rages on. Discover why the Founders feared state-backed faith, how 'separation of church and state' became a battlecry, and why 'In God We Trust' isn't unconstitutional. Explore the shocking history and modern controversies shaping your right to believe—or not believe.

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Freedom of Speech in America: Boundaries, Backlash, and Enduring Principles
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Freedom of Speech in America: Boundaries, Backlash, and Enduring Principles

Discover the shocking truth about free speech in America! From Nazi marches to wartime censorship, explore the controversial history and modern challenges of the First Amendment. Learn why the U.S. protects hate speech, how social media complicates freedom, and where courts draw the line. Is free speech under threat? Click to find out!

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Left, Right, and U-Turn: The Unexpected Evolution of American Politics
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Left, Right, and U-Turn: The Unexpected Evolution of American Politics

Dive into a political twilight zone where Republicans champion environmentalism, Democrats slash taxes, and both parties agree on abolishing the Electoral College. Uncover the surprising twists in U.S. political history that challenge everything you thought you knew about party lines. Prepare to have your mind blown by these ideological somersaults!

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The First Amendment: America's Unique Approach to Freedom
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The First Amendment: America's Unique Approach to Freedom

Discover the First Amendment: America's free speech superpower! From religious freedom to the right to criticize your government, explore how the U.S. protects controversial ideas in ways that shock the world. Uncover real-world examples, court battles, and modern challenges in this eye-opening dive into your fundamental freedoms.

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We the People: 250 Years of American Civic Evolution
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We the People: 250 Years of American Civic Evolution

From quill to liberty: Celebrating 250 years of American democracy. Explore how the Constitution shapes our lives, from revolutionary ideals to modern-day challenges. Join us twice monthly for insights that will ignite your civic spirit and deepen your understanding of what it truly means to be American.

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When States Go Rogue: The Constitutional Failsafe You've Never Heard Of
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When States Go Rogue: The Constitutional Failsafe You've Never Heard Of

Ever wonder what would happen if a state decided to crown a king? The Constitution has a wild card up its sleeve: the Guarantee Clause. It's democracy's emergency brake, rarely discussed but critically important. Dive into this constitutional mystery and discover how it silently safeguards your rights.

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From Revolutionaries to Framers: The Bold Leap into American Democracy
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From Revolutionaries to Framers: The Bold Leap into American Democracy

Welcome to our 'Road to 250' series, celebrating the upcoming 250th anniversary of American independence! As we count down to 2026, we're exploring the bedrock principles that have shaped our nation since 1776. From the First Amendment to federalism, each post in this series unpacks a crucial element of American democracy, examining its historical roots and modern relevance. Whether you're a history buff, a concerned citizen, or simply curious about how our government works, join us on this journey through the ideas that have defined America for nearly two and a half centuries. Let's rediscover the foundations of our republic and reflect on what they mean for our future. Buckle up for a trip through time that's as relevant today as it was when the Founders put quill to parchment!

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We the People 2.0: Upgrading Our Constitutional Software
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We the People 2.0: Upgrading Our Constitutional Software

Our Constitution: a masterpiece with room for improvement. From the Electoral College to congressional power shifts, we explore the genius and flaws of our founding document. Discover how the League of Women Voters is championing smart reforms to strengthen democracy. Ready to make "We the People" work better for all? Click to dive in!

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Rethinking Judicial Elections: A Look at Alternative Models
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Rethinking Judicial Elections: A Look at Alternative Models

Judicial selection in Minnesota: A closer look at elections vs. appointments. Explore the ongoing debate over how we choose judges, weighing concerns about judicial independence against calls for accountability. Examine different models used across states, including merit selection, and consider the potential impacts on our court system's integrity and public trust.

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Why Your Local Election Matters More Than Your Hotdish Recipe
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Why Your Local Election Matters More Than Your Hotdish Recipe

Think your vote doesn't matter? Think again! Dive into the shocking stats on local election turnout in Minnesota. Learn why your city council member impacts your daily life more than the president, and how a handful of votes can change your community. Don't let your hotdish recipe get more attention than your ballot—find out why local elections are the real MVPs of democracy.

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Purse Strings and Power Plays: The Legislative Branch's Greatest Weapon
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Purse Strings and Power Plays: The Legislative Branch's Greatest Weapon

Who really controls your tax dollars? Dive into the high-stakes battle between Congress and the President over the 'power of the purse.' From border walls to student loans, discover how this constitutional superpower shapes policy, blocks overreach, and safeguards democracy. Learn why your vote for Congress might matter more than you think!

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270 to Win: Why the Electoral College Needs to Go
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270 to Win: Why the Electoral College Needs to Go

The Electoral College, America's indirect system for electing presidents, has become a lightning rod for debates about fairness and representation. While it has determined presidential outcomes for over two centuries, its anti-democratic flaws and near-abolition in the 1970s reveal why this system remains controversial.

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The Equal Rights Amendment: A Century-Long Fight for Constitutional Equality
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The Equal Rights Amendment: A Century-Long Fight for Constitutional Equality

A century-long fight for equality hits a new battleground: Minnesota. Uncover the twisted history of the Equal Rights Amendment, from Alice Paul to Joe Biden's symbolic gesture. See how state-level action is reigniting the push for constitutional protections against discrimination. Will the North Star State lead the way?

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