

How Patriots Fight Back Against Presidents (with Corey Brettschneider)
12 snips Mar 10, 2025
Corey Brettschneider, a political theorist and constitutional scholar, dives deep into the history of presidential overreach and its implications for democracy. He discusses how past leaders like Woodrow Wilson contributed to systemic racism and the internment of Japanese Americans. The conversation emphasizes the power of grassroots activism in defending democratic principles and parallels between historical figures like Frederick Douglass and today's challenges. Brettschneider also highlights the necessity of local governance in resisting federal overreach and ensuring accountability.
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Presidential Selection Criteria
- Corey Brettschneider chose five presidents for his book based on their institutional attacks on democracy.
- He focused on presidents whose philosophies and constitutional interpretations posed a significant threat.
Crisis and Recovery
- Brettschneider's book explores the concept of "recovery presidents."
- These presidents, along with engaged citizens, help restore democracy after periods of crisis.
John Adams and Free Speech
- John Adams, despite being considered a good president, threatened free speech with the Sedition Act.
- Newspapers editors fought back, leading to Jefferson's election and a partial recovery of free speech.