Consider the Constitution

The Living Constitution: Highlights from Season One Nov 06, 2024

In this season finale, host Dr. Katie Crawford Lackey and producer Adam Belmar reflect on key conversations from the first season of Consider the Constitution Podcast. They revisit notable discussions with constitutional scholars about Article III, judicial review, Madison's vision for managing political diversity, and the evolution of constitutional rights. Highlights include insights on voting rights, the legacy of Reconstruction, privacy in the digital age, and George Washington's approach to the presidency. The episode emphasizes how the Constitution continues to shape American democracy while underscoring the importance of civic engagement and education.
Scholars in this episode:
1. Dr. Lauren Bell - discussing Article III
2. F. Michael Higginbotham - on judicial review
3. Dr. Jay Cost - on Madison's vision for political diversity
4. Dr. Beau Breslin - on constitutional endurance and Jefferson's views
5. Dr. Lynn Uzzell - on the Bill of Rights
6. Professor Kendra Johnson - on privacy rights and technology
7. Jade Ryerson - on the right to assembly
8. Dr. Pippa Holloway - on voting rights
9. Professor Julie Suk - on women's suffrage
10. Dr. DeAnza Cook - on the 13th Amendment and mass incarceration
11. Dr. Hasan Jeffries - on Reconstruction and originalism
12. Dr. Lindsay Chervinsky - on George Washington's presidency
13. David O. Stewart - on Washington at the Constitutional Convention
14. Dr. John Ragosta - on early political divisions
15. Professor Michael Gerhardt - on impeachment

The Birth of Executive Power: Creating the American Presidency Oct 24, 2024

Dr. Lindsay Chervinsky, Executive Director of the George Washington Presidential Library, joins host Dr. Katie Crawford-Lackey to explore the evolution of presidential power from the nation's founding through the early republic. Drawing from her new book "Making the Presidency: John Adams and the Precedents That Forged The Republic," she discusses how George Washington and John Adams shaped the executive office, established crucial precedents, and navigated the delicate balance between effective governance and preventing monarchical power.

Raising Engaged Citizens: A Conversation with Dr. Lindsey Cormack Oct 09, 2024

Nurturing civic engagement in America means raising a new generation of informed, active citizens. Special guest Dr. Lindsey Cormack joins host Katie Crawford-Lackey to discuss her latest book, How to Raise a Citizen (And Why It’s up to You to Do It), and share practical strategies for engaging children in politics. Whether you're a parent, educator, or simply invested in the future of our nation, this episode offers valuable tools for nurturing engaged citizens in an increasingly complex political landscape.

Constitution Building Across Continents: Insights from YALI Fellows Sep 25, 2024

In the final installment of our special three-part series exploring the global impact of the U.S. Constitution, we bring you inside an immersive constitution-building simulation at James Madison's Montpelier. This episode features interviews with six emerging leaders from Sub-Saharan Africa, participants in the U.S. Department of State's Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI). These distinguished public servants share their insights on democracy, civic engagement, and the role of youth in shaping their countries' futures.
Building on themes from our previous episodes with Professor Heinz Klug and Dr. Tinashe Hofisi, this episode offers a unique perspective on how America's constitutional journey resonates with young leaders working to strengthen democratic institutions in their own nations. Join us as we explore how the principles of the U.S. Constitution continue to inspire and inform global conversations on governance, rights, and civic responsibility.

Building Justice: African Courts and Global Democracy with Dr. Tinashe Hofisi Sep 11, 2024

In this second installment of our special three-part miniseries on global democracy, Dr. Katie Crawford Lackey interviews Dr. Tinashe Hofisi, a human rights lawyer and constitutional scholar from Zimbabwe. Dr. Hofisi, an alumnus and instructor of the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI), shares insights from his research on judicial power in a global context. Funded by Virginia Humanities and produced in collaboration with the Presidential Precinct, this episode explores the complexities of establishing and maintaining effective judicial systems, particularly in post-colonial African nations. Dr. Hofisi discusses the importance of judicial independence, the challenges of creating representative courts, and the surprising effectiveness of lower courts in enforcing constitutional rights.

Global Impact of the U.S. Constitution with Prof. Heinz Klug Aug 28, 2024

In this first episode of a special three-part mini-series, host Dr. Katie Crawford Lackey of the Robert H. Smith Center for the Constitution at James Madison's Montpelier explores the global impact of the U.S. Constitution. Funded by Virginia Humanities and produced in collaboration with the Presidential Precinct, this series highlights the experiences of Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) Mandela Washington Fellows. Featuring an interview with Professor Heinz Klug, a South African constitutional scholar, the episode delves into the complexities of constitution-building, the importance of context in drafting constitutions, and the role of public participation in shaping democracy. Klug shares insights from his involvement in South Africa's post-apartheid transition, discussing the challenges of balancing diverse stakeholder interests and the necessity of "constructive ambiguity" in constitutional language. Gain valuable perspectives on the fundamental principles and challenges of creating effective governance structures in different cultural and historical contexts.

Reconstruction's Constitutional Legacy with Dr. Hasan Kwame Jeffries Aug 14, 2024

The Reconstruction era following the American Civil War sought to redefine the place of newly freed African Americans in society and align Constitutional promises with reality. History Professor Hasan Kwame Jeffries of The Ohio State University joins host Dr. Katie Crawford-Lackey to discuss contested visions for post-war America among different groups, the impact of the 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments, and efforts to disenfranchise Black voters despite Constitutional protections.
Dr. Jeffries provides historical context on how progress made during Reconstruction was systematically undermined and discusses the tensions between the letter and spirit of Constitutional amendments.

Constitutional Change: Articles V and VII with Dr. Beau Breslin Jul 31, 2024

Articles V and VII of the U.S. Constitution outline the amendment and ratification process. Host Dr. Katie Crawford-Lackey is joined by Skidmore College Political Science Professor Dr. Beau Breslin to discuss the two pathways for amending the Constitution and the high bar for making changes. This episode also touches on the importance of the Constitution's preamble, its evolution during the drafting process, and how it might be different if written today.

Inside the World of U.S. Attorneys with Timothy J. Heaphy Jul 17, 2024

In the Judiciary Act of 1789, the First Congress created the office of the U.S. Attorneys, which was signed into law by President George Washington. Timothy J. Heaphy, a former U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Virginia, joins host Dr. Katie Crawford-Lackey to discuss the roles and responsibilities of U.S. Attorneys within the federal justice system and the significance of collaboration between different levels of law enforcement.

Republic or Democracy with Dr. Casey Burgat Jul 03, 2024

This July 4th, 2024 episode explores the history between "democracy" and "republic" in America's government. George Washington University Assistant Professor Dr. Casey Burgat discusses how these concepts were understood at the Constitutional Convention in 1787 and how they complement each other. Recorded at James Madison's Montpelier, the conversation emphasizes civic engagement's role in maintaining this delicate balance amid evolving political landscapes.

Pursuing Equal Protection: The Reconstruction Amendments and the Ongoing Struggle for Justice Jun 19, 2024

In this episode of Consider the Constitution, recorded close to the 2024 Juneteenth federal holiday commemorating the end of slavery, host Dr. Katie Crawford-Lackey interviews Dr. DeAnza Cook about the Reconstruction Amendments (13th, 14th, and 15th) and their impact on the American justice system. Dr. Cook explains how the 13th Amendment abolished slavery but left a loophole allowing involuntary servitude as punishment for a crime. This led to the disproportionate criminalization and incarceration of Black Americans during the Reconstruction era and beyond.
The 14th and 15th Amendments aimed to address citizenship and voting rights for African Americans, but racial discrimination persisted. Black activists leveraged these amendments to challenge racist policing and punishment practices through the courts, protests, and self-defense. However, mass incarceration, which began in the late 20th century, continues to disproportionately affect people of color.
Dr. Cook introduces the concept of "abolition democracy," which argues that the abolition of slavery was not enough to secure the rights and freedoms promised to Black Americans. She emphasizes the importance of restoring voting rights for those serving felony convictions and addressing de facto disenfranchisement in jails.
The episode underscores the ongoing struggle for equal protection under the law and the need for collective action to pursue a more just and inclusive democracy, particularly as we reflect on the significance of Juneteenth.

Comparative Constitutional Law with Dr. Mila Versteeg Jun 05, 2024

In this episode of "Consider the Constitution," Dr. Katie Crawford-Lackey interviews Dr. Mila Versteeg, a professor at the University of Virginia School of Law, about modern democratic governance and the role of constitutions. They discuss the differences between the U.S. Constitution and those of other countries, the importance of citizens in enforcing constitutional rights, and the challenges of maintaining fidelity to the Constitution in hyperpartisan environments. Dr. Versteeg emphasizes the significance of citizen engagement in safeguarding democracy.

Compromise and Debate at the Constitutional Convention with Professor Michael Klarman May 22, 2024

In this episode of Consider the Constitution, Professor Michael J Klarman delves into the intricate history behind the drafting and ratification of the U.S. Constitution. He explores the compromises and debates between competing interest groups at the Constitutional Convention, the evolution of democracy since its ratification, and the unique challenges posed by the Constitution's rigidity. Klarman also sheds light on James Madison's indispensable role in the creation and defense of this foundational document.

Presidential Impeachment with Prof. Michael J. Gerhardt May 08, 2024

Delve into the heart of the impeachment process in the U.S. Constitution with Professor Michael J. Gerhardt, a distinguished professor of jurisprudence at the University of North Carolina Law School. Explore the historical origins, the framers' intentions, and the complexities of holding high-ranking officials accountable. With insights into recent events and the evolving role of political parties, this episode offers a thought-provoking examination of democracy's safeguard.

Character and Leadership at the Constitutional Convention with David O. Stewart Apr 24, 2024

Historian and author David O. Stewart joins host Dr. Katie Crawford-Lackey to discuss the leadership styles of key figures like George Washington and James Madison, and how their personalities and approaches to politics shaped the drafting of the U.S. Constitution. Stewart emphasizes the importance of character in leadership, and how understanding the humanity of these historical figures can provide valuable insights.

History of Policing in America with Dr. DeAnza A. Cook Apr 10, 2024

This episode considers the origins and development of policing and police-community relations in America. DeAnza A. Cook, Assistant Professor of Contemporary African American History and Black Leadership at The Ohio State University, joins host Dr. Katie Crawford-Lackey to discuss the changes in law enforcement post-Civil War, the impact of the civil rights movement on law enforcement, and current challenges in forging a better relationship between communities and law enforcement.

19th Amendment with Prof. Julie Suk Mar 27, 2024

In this episode, Julie C. Suk, Professor of Law, at Fordham University School of Law discusses the 19th Amendment, which granted women the right to vote in the United States. The discussion covers the history of the women's suffrage movement, the impact of the 19th Amendment, and the ongoing struggle for gender equality. Despite the 19th Amendment, many women, particularly African-American and indigenous women, still faced discrimination.

American Political Economy with Dr. Danielle Charette Mar 13, 2024

In this episode, Dr. Danielle Charette, an expert on 18th-century political economy, discusses the economic instability faced by the newly independent states, the economic debates during the Constitutional Convention, and the economic theories influencing the founders. The podcast also explores the economic boom during the Gilded Age and the original intersection of capitalism and democracy in the United States.

Political Turmoil in the 1790s with Dr. John Ragosta Feb 28, 2024

In this episode, Dr. John Ragosta, a historian at the Robert H. Smith International Center for Jefferson Studies at Monticello, discusses the political turmoil in the 1790s. The period saw hyper-partisanship, with Federalists like John Adams and Alexander Hamilton supporting a strong central government, while Democratic Republicans like Thomas Jefferson and James Madison favored stronger state government. The Alien and Sedition Acts, which gave the President the authority to deport any alien deemed dangerous and made it illegal to criticize the President or Congress, were a significant point of contention. The episode also discusses how Jefferson and Madison realized they had gone too far with their partisan battles and pulled back, leading to a more unified political climate. The episode concludes with a discussion on the importance of a free press, the concept of a loyal opposition, and the principle that the majority rules but the minority must accept this until the next election.

Constitutional Endurance with Dr. Beau Breslin Feb 14, 2024

Inside the debate between James Madison and Thomas Jefferson over the endurance of the U.S. Constitution. Jefferson believed that each generation should rewrite the Constitution, while Madison argued for a Constitution that endures over time to build up necessary reverence and respect. Host Dr. Katie Crawford-Lackey is joined by Skidmore College Political Science Professor Dr. Beau Breslin to discuss the implications if Jefferson's argument had prevailed and what it would mean for political engagement today.
Professor Breslin is the author of A Constitution for the Living: Imagining How Five Generations of Americans Would Rewrite the Nation’s Fundamental Law. Stanford, CA: Stanford University Press, 2021.

History of Voting Rights with Dr. Pippa Holloway Jan 31, 2024

In this episode of Consider the Constitution, host Dr. Katie Crawford Lackey discusses the right to vote, or suffrage, and how it functions as a mechanism for citizens to participate in the democratic process. Special guest, Dr. Pippa Holloway, a history professor at the University of Richmond, discusses the evolution of voting rights in the U.S., from the ambiguity surrounding citizenship and voting rights in the original Constitution to the clarification provided in the mid-19th century. The conversation also covers the 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments, the women's suffrage movement, and the challenges faced by different groups in gaining and exercising their voting rights.

Right to Privacy with Prof Kendra Johnson Jan 17, 2024

In this episode of Consider the Constitution, host Dr. Katie Crawford-Lackey and Professor Kendra Johnson discuss the Fourth Amendment, which focuses on aspects of privacy. The interpretation of the Fourth Amendment has evolved with technology, with cases involving wiretapping and cell phone searches setting precedents. Professor Johnson discusses the historical context of the Fourth Amendment, its impact on everyday life, and its potential future implications, particularly concerning advancing technology and privacy concerns.

Custodians of Constitutional Values with Tim Longo, Sr. Jan 03, 2024

In this episode of the Consider the Constitution podcast, host Dr. Katie Crawford-Lackey interviews Tim Longo, Sr., a veteran law enforcement officer and current Associate Vice President for Safety and Security and Chief of Police at the University of Virginia. They discuss the role of law enforcement in upholding the Constitution, the importance of understanding the First Amendment, and the concept of qualified immunity. Longo emphasizes the need for better training for officers on the First Amendment and the importance of understanding the "why" behind their actions. He also discusses the balance between protecting individual rights and ensuring community safety.

Congress Hall and The Bill of Rights Dec 13, 2023

In this episode of Consider The Constitution, host Dr. Katie Crawford-Lackey is joined by Suzanne Moore and Benjamin Eckert, Park Rangers of Interpretation at Independence National Historical Park in Philadelphia, to discuss the drafting and ratification of the Bill of Rights. Congress Hall in Philadelphia was the site of the ratification of the Bill of Rights on December 15, 1791.
During Congress Hall's duration as the Capitol of the United States, the country admitted three new states, Vermont, Kentucky, and Tennessee; ratified the Bill of Rights of the United States Constitution; and oversaw the presidential inaugurations of both George Washington (his second) and John Adams.

Marquis de Lafayette with Hilarie M. Hicks, Montpelier Senior Research Historian Nov 29, 2023

In this episode of Consider the Constitution, host Dr. Katie Crawford-Lackey is joined by Montpelier Senior Research Historian Hilarie M. Hicks for a conversation about the relationship between James Madison and the Marquis de Lafayette, a Frenchman who became an icon of the American Revolution. The two men first met in 1784 and developed a deep friendship that was both politically advantageous and intellectually stimulating. They exchanged over 65 letters and their political philosophies are discussed in this episode. The podcast also touches on Madison's views on slavery and freedom of religion, and how these views influenced his drafting of the US Constitution. Lafayette's visit to the United States in 1824 and 1825, and his conversations with Madison during these visits, are also discussed.

U.S. Supreme Court with Prof. F. Michael Higginbotham Nov 15, 2023

In the episode of "Consider the Constitution," host Dr. Katie Crawford-Lacky interviews constitutional law expert Prof. F. Michael Higginbotham. They discuss the role of the Supreme Court in American life, past and present. Higginbotham explains the court's function in interpreting laws and determining their consistency with the Constitution. They also discuss key Supreme Court cases, including Marbury vs. Madison, which established judicial review, and Plessy vs. Ferguson, which upheld racial segregation. Higginbotham highlights the importance of the Brown vs. Board of Education case in ending segregation in education.

Center for the Constitution with Patrick Campbell Nov 01, 2023

In this episode of Consider the Constitution, host Dr. Katie Crawford-Lackey is joined by Patrick Campbell, a retired US Marine Corps officer, attorney, veteran high school government teacher, and assistant director of the Center for the Constitution. Campbell discusses the Center for the Constitution's work engaging diverse audiences with the concept of government by the people. He also talks about the importance of compromise in a democratic society, the role of the media, and the impact of physical spaces like Montpelier on understanding the democratic process. Campbell emphasizes the need for ongoing dialogue and engagement in the democratic process, stating that our freedoms mean more than our disagreements.

Article III: Judicial Branch with Dr. Lauren Bell Oct 18, 2023

In this episode of the podcast "Consider the Constitution," host Dr. Katie Crawford-Lackey discusses Article III of the US Constitution, which established the judicial branch. She is joined by Dr. Lauren Bell, a political science professor and former fellow at the United States Supreme Court. They discuss the brevity of Article III compared to other articles, the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court, and the relationship between federal and state courts. They also delve into the significance of the Marbury v. Madison case, in which Chief Justice John Marshall established the power of judicial review. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the current state of the Supreme Court and the challenges it faces in maintaining public trust and legitimacy.

Constitution Month 2023 Oct 04, 2023

Hear the best moments from all of our Constitution Month 2023 podcast episodes. Join Dr. Katie Crawford-Lackey as we consider The Bill of Rights, the First Amendment, the original text of the Constitution, the balance between government authority and civil liberties, the value of a free press, and the need for citizens to be politically and civically informed.

News Media and Democracy with Adam Belmar Sep 27, 2023

In this episode of Consider the Constitution, we're considering freedom of the press and the role of news media in our democracy. The Hon. Adam Belmar served as Deputy Assistant to the President of the United States and Deputy Director of White House Communications for Production. He also held the role of Senior Producer at ABC News, running the Washington DC bureau of ABC's "Good Morning America" and the Sunday morning public affairs show "This Week With George Stephanopoulos."

The Original Constitution with Dr. Jay Cost Sep 20, 2023

In this episode of Consider the Constitution, we’re taking a deep dive into the sections or articles of the Constitution - the document as it was signed on September 17, 1787. Our special guest is Dr. Jay Cost, the Gerald R. Ford nonresident senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute (AEI), where he focuses on elections, politics, and public opinion. He has published several books about James Madison and the founding era, and his next book, Democracy or Republic: The People Under the Constitution, is due to be released by AEI Press later this year.

Right to Assemble with Jade Ryerson Sep 13, 2023

Our special guest today on Consider the Constitution is Jade Ryerson, a scholar who is passionate about using public history to encourage civic engagement. Jade earned her master's degree in Heritage Studies and Public History from the University of Minnesota and currently serves as the historian with the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area. In this episode of the podcast, we discuss the First Amendment "right of the people peaceably to assemble."
Opinions expressed are solely those of the guest and do not express the views or opinions of their employer.

Bill of Rights with Dr. Lynn Uzzell Sep 06, 2023

Dr. Lynn Uzzell is a scholar steeped in the foundational principles of America’s constitutional republic. She earned her Ph.D. in politics from the Institute of Philosophical Studies at the University of Dallas and spent four years as a Scholar in Residence at the Center for the Constitution at James Madison’s Montpelier. In this episode, we discuss the Bill of Rights. What they are. Why they are so important. And whether they protect individuals today the way Madison conceived of them.

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