Do criminal illegal aliens have rights in our country? One of our participants asked, “Why do so many believe constitutional rights apply to anyone setting foot on U.S. soil rather than, specifically, U.S. citizens?” I’ve been thinking a lot about this question from a Civics and Constitution teacher’s perspective. Now, I am not a lawyer. […]
Understanding the Electoral College: A Key Topic for 2024
The Electoral College is bound to be a huge topic in 2024. Some people are actively campaigning for the popular vote to be the final say in presidential elections. In short, these Americans want to do away with the constitutionally mandated Electoral College. The Electoral College just happened to be the lesson I taught this […]
Can a Prisoner Run for President?
Can a prisoner run for President? What about Secret Service protection? Those questions are receiving a lot of media attention this week. Let’s take a look at the Constitution and current law for the answer. What the Law Says and Does Not Say Yes, an imprisoned candidate for president can run for office. Article II, […]
Is This The Way to Choose a Presidential Candidate?
Are presidential candidates basically activist influencers? Moreover, would you go to Tic Tac [misspelling intentional] to find your ideal presidential candidate? This idea was posed to me by a thirty-something guy whose job is— wait for it— social media. I think if you are young, this may look like the future, that is, choosing your […]
Who Can the President Pardon?
Who can a U.S. President pardon? Do you have this question, which is circulating among Americans? Let’s go to the Constitution for the answer. Be sure to read what powers the President has regarding pardons and reprieves. Article II, section 2, Clause 1 “The President shall be Commander in Chief of the Army and Navy […]
What the State of the Union Is Meant to Be
Article II, Sec. 3 requires that the President of the United States inform Congress of the State of the Union. Through our elected representatives, We the People are: 1. to be informed about how our country is doing 2. to be given any recommendations the President thinks are necessary. The Constitution says it this way: […]
What In the World Is Going On Here?
Yes, I feel it, too. What is going on in the nation? It’s been hard to discuss the Constitution when our country is grieving and a whirlwind is swirling around us. Frankly, one reader confided in me that they are confused. Since this is Common Sense Civics and Citizenship, let’s emphasize “common sense” as we […]
Simple Civics 101-The Executive Branch
Let’s do a basic civics review of the Presidency, which is the federal government’s Executive Branch. Qualifications: Must be at least 35 years old Natural born citizen of the United States Must be a resident of the United States for the past 14 years Term of Service: Four years Two-term limit Note: the Founding Fathers […]
