The Bulwark Podcast Heather Cox Richardson: An Attack on Our System of Government
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Oct 15, 2025 
Heather Cox Richardson, a Boston College professor and insightful author of "Letters from an American," provides a compelling look at the current political landscape. She discusses how Congressional Republicans have surrendered their power to unelected officials, echoing concerns about Trump's influence. Heather also critiques Trump's proposed arch as a troubling symbol near the Lincoln Memorial. Additionally, they tackle issues like gerrymandering, voter suppression, and the implications of military deployments in urban areas, sparking profound reflections on America's constitutional framework.
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Congressional Abdication Threatens Constitutional Balance
- Congress is meant to be the primary seat of power under the Constitution, but Republicans have largely ceded legislative and spending control.
- That abdication constitutes a profound attack on the structure and balance of American government.
Power Is Sloshing To Unelected Operatives
- Power in government “sloshes around” and is currently held by unelected officials like Russell Vought and Stephen Miller.
- Whether Congress reclaims power or courts and public pushback check these actors will shape the system's future.
Emergencies Used To Circumvent Congressional Authority
- Tariffs and emergency declarations are congressional powers the president is bypassing.
- Using emergency law to centralize authority reflects theories of sovereignty tied to authoritarianism.
