top of page
Search

Explaining the Constitutional Crisis, Like We're Five

Hello again, friends!





Today is ridiculous.


For one, I’m writing from a picnic bench at Sangchris - in a sleeveless dress.  I already took off my sweater.  It’s 63 degrees right now.  In February.


For another, it feels like I’ve let down a friend.  Who is Abe Lincoln?  Which is ridiculous.  He’s long gone, and it’s not my mob to show up in his black boots and fix democracy.


Because our country elected a terrible human being as president.  And someone needs to fix it.


It hurts my heart to say that about someone, even Donald Trump.  But I believe it is true.


Grandma Ada, Grandpa Lee - even my friend, Abe - taught me how to be a good human.  Take care of your family, your community.  Stand up for what you believe in.


All of which is not ridiculous.


But the fact that a middle-aged mom, fed up with broken systems is sitting here feeling that it’s her responsibility to fix democracy is pretty ridiculous.


Except it’s not.


That’s why I feel that I’ve let Abe down.  He clearly told us many years ago - that the American people need to keep calm, stand up individually for what is right, your obligations to our constitution, and the “clouds now on the horizon will have a bright and glorious future.”


He reminds us even today that yes, it is my responsibility, just as it is yours, to fix democracy now.  That no one leader, or party is going to save us.


The only people who can save America are her people.


People like a middle-aged mom.  Or a single parent showing up to a PTA meeting.  Or a community fed up with waiting for the state or federal government to help them.


Abe told us all - we’re the ones we’re waiting for.


So, I’m done letting Abe down.  I love my country, and I’m fighting for her.


Now.  What can I, Jen McMillin, do?


Well, that’s why I founded Sunshine Strategies.  I’m done waiting for politicians to do the right thing.  So, I’m going to help communities fix their own problems in rural communities. One glaring local problem is the lack of relevant news.


Working downstate, I need to know what’s going on around me.  And I haven’t found a news source to fit my family’s needs.


So, yesterday, I brought back Kids Political Radio.  I’m not sure of the frequency, but I need just a quick rundown of what the heck is going on in the country and state.


Next, Sunshine Strategies is looking for new clients.  That could be a township needing an affordable website all the way to a summer camp curriculum on nature.  If your organization supports families, how can we support you?


We want to be the link to other innovative thinkers and problem solvers.  You know, the other ridiculous people like me.  And Abe Lincoln.


We forget that Mr. Lincoln was a bit ridiculous himself.  Yelling at pigs under the Taylorville Courthouse to be quiet during his statements.  Keeping letters in his hat.  And what serious person would consider running for president from some hick town on the edge of the world in Illinois?


A ridiculous one.


And if I can help you be a bit ridiculous in your own community - or help you share the news from your town - please let me know.


__________________________


As of February 5, 2025, the United States is experiencing a significant constitutional crisis centered on the balance of power among the executive, legislative, and judicial branches of government. Crisis has been precipitated by actions taken during President Donald Trump's second term, particularly involving his appointment of Elon Musk to lead the newly established Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).

y Issues:*

  1. Dismantling of Federal Agencies: President Trump, with Musk's assistance, has initiated efforts to dismantle or significantly restructure various federal programs and agencies. For once, there have been attempts to dissolve the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) by integrating it into the State Department. Legal vets argue that such actions require congressional approval, as these agencies were established through legislative acts. ([time.co(https://time.com/12753/trump-elon-musk-federal-laws-legal-anysis/?utm_source=chatgpt.com))

  2. Bypassing Congressional Authority: Musk, operating with considerable agony, has been accused of bypassing Congress in executing these changes. Reports indicate that he has been working in secrecy, violating fed laws, and making unilateral decisions without legislative oversight. This concentration of power within the executive branch challenges the system of checks and balances fundamental to the U. Constitution. ([theatlantic.com](https://www.theatlantic.com/politics/archive/2025/02/trump-musk-congress-constitution/681568/?utm_source=chatgpt.com3. Freezing Federal Funds: The administration has attempted to halt federal payments to programs it opposes, such as those related to diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. This move has been challenged in court with federal judges temporarily blocking the funding freeze, citing potential violations of constitutional principles. (stevevladeck.com)

  3. Legal and Political Challenges: Democratic lawmakers and various organizations have filed lawsuits against these executive actions, arguing that they violate the separation of powers and overstep presidential authority. However, with Republicans controlling the White House, Congress, and a conservative Supreme Court, countering these moves has proven challenging. (apnews.com)

Constitutional Implications:

The U.S. The Constitution establishes a system of checks and balances designed to prevent any one branch of government from being too powerful. The recent actions by the executive branch, particularly the consolidation of power and circumvention of congressional authority, have led to a constitutional crisis by disrupting this balance. The situation underscores the importance of maintaining the separation of powers to ensure that democratic principles are upheld.

In summary, the current constitutional crisis arises from actions by the executive branch that challenge the traditional distribution of power among the branches of government, leading to significant legal and political disputes over the interpretation and application of the Constitution.




___________________________________________________________


Other News -


As of February 5, 2025, here are some notable news developments affecting Illinois families:

1. Legal Challenge to Chicago Casino Project

A lawsuit has been filed against Bally's $1.7 billion Chicago casino project, alleging racial discrimination by excluding white men from investment opportunities. The suit claims that the project's adherence to a Host Community Agreement, which mandates 25% minority ownership, violates the Civil Rights Act of 1866. The casino is slated to open in downtown Chicago in 2026.

2. Gerrymandering Lawsuit Filed by Illinois Republicans

Illinois House Republican leaders and five voters have petitioned the state Supreme Court to discard the current legislative district map, arguing it is unconstitutionally gerrymandered to favor Democrats. The lawsuit contends that the map violates provisions for "free and equal" elections in the state constitution. Republicans are seeking the appointment of a special master to redraw the map before the 2026 elections.

3. State Employment Ban for January 6 Participants

Governor J.B. Pritzker has announced that individuals involved in the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol will be prohibited from holding state government positions in Illinois. This directive aims to prevent those who attempted to overthrow the government from serving in state roles. Governor Pritzker emphasized that such actions are contrary to the state's mission and values.

4. Clarification on Federal Agents' Visit to Chicago School

Chicago Public Schools and Governor Pritzker initially reported that ICE agents had visited Hamline Elementary School for immigration enforcement. It was later clarified that the agents were from the U.S. Secret Service investigating a security threat against a government official, not ICE. School officials apologized for the misunderstanding and reaffirmed their commitment to protecting students.

5. ICE Enforcement Actions in Chicago

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers conducted targeted enforcement operations in Chicago, aiming to arrest criminal illegal migrants. The efforts faced challenges due to Chicago's sanctuary city status and active assistance from local activist groups helping migrants evade ICE. Despite these obstacles, ICE emphasized its commitment to upholding the law and ensuring community safety.



Sources - 




 
 
 

Comments

bottom of page