Why Liberals should support federalism
Richard Thompson Ford writes in Slate that blue-state secessionists should recognize that federalism--decentralized political power--was designed just for their current predicament. It was designed to protect the interests of geographical minorities.
He writes:
But much of the association of federalism with conservative politics is the result of historical accident: There is nothing inherently conservative about limitations on the power of Congress and the executive. And now that both of these branches are firmly controlled by conservatives, perhaps liberals will begin to see the merits of meaningful federalism.
The federalist system was designed to encourage a free market in political ideas. As long as individual rights are protected, states are supposed to be able to experiment (or not) as they see fit, trying out new ideas to solve their problems. They can borrow or learn from other states who do things differently. And U.S. citizens can freely travel to the state that fits them best.
- The New Blue Federalism
- “The American legal tradition does offer liberals a practical alternative to secession or a condo in Vancouver. It's called federalism, aka state's rights.”
- Take back the name
- I am proud to be a liberal. I hold as my political idols Jefferson, Paine, and other radical liberals from the founding of this country. It is time that real liberals took back the name from the conservatives!
- Five Million Times Easier!
- I’ve got a way to make the IRS’ job five million times easier. And your tax forms half as difficult.
- Nobody Likes the Electoral System
- The “winner-takes-all” electoral system is an integral part of the United States system of checks and balances, balancing the rights of regional minorities against the power of national majorities.